Do you think that a loved one may have an addiction? Does
your own behavior make you question if you have a problem? Addictions are not
limited to only drugs and alcohol, it is possible to have an addiction to a
variety of things. Some of the more common addictions include:

• Street
  Drugs
• Prescription
  Medication
• Shopping
• Food
• Sex
• Gambling

There are some general warning signs that should be viewed
as red flags for a possible addiction. It is important to note that these
warning signs can be indicators of problems that are not addiction. These
behaviors and signs should be handled with great care and it is important to
contact a professional as soon as
possible to determine the severity of a problem. The following warning signs
list is not inclusive but it will assist in taking notice of some initial
warning signs that an addiction is present.

1.      Negative
behavior such as: lying, stealing, being secretive and being overly defensive.

2.      Overt
changes in social behavior: new friends, changes in phone habits, changes in
social activities often withholding detailed information of where they are
going and with whom they are hanging out.

3.      Financial
changes: spending more, unusual charges on the credit card, unexplained
purchases, not taking care of financial responsibilities such as bills and
other necessities.

4.      Physical
symptoms: changes in weight, pupils looking too large or too small, body
twitches and changes in energy and motivation.

5.      Changes
in sleep patterns: sleeping more, sleeping less and overall not appearing to be
well rested.

These are just a few of the changes that can occur when
someone is active in their disease. Should you be experiencing any of these
warning signs, either in someone you know or personally, help is available.
There is no need to suffer in silence. Embrace the tools of recovery that are available to
you. A successful recovery is possible.

Sherry Gaba, LCSW, is a Licensed Psychotherapist in Agoura Hills, Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Calabasas, Malibu and on Celebrity Rehab.  She is also the author of “The Law of Sobriety: Attracting Positive Energy for a Powerful Recovery.”  She can be reached at sherry@sgabatherapy.com or www.thelawosobriety.com or www.sgabatherapy.com.