Addiction is a complex disease known as a severe substance use disorder. Women who have an addiction to drugs or alcohol see it affect their behavior and brain. The key symptom of addiction for men or women is compulsive, out-of-control substance use.
The substance becomes the top priority, as does getting more and maintaining a supply.
When someone has an addiction to drugs or alcohol, they continue to use them even though they know it’s causing negative outcomes and consequences.
Other addiction symptoms include:
- Experiencing the need to use the substance daily and often several times a day
- Intense urges to use the substance that blocks out other feelings or thoughts
- Developing a tolerance and needing larger doses to get the same effects
- Spending money on the substance to the point that it’s creating financial issues
- Not meeting other life obligations
- Putting oneself in risky situations when under the influence of the substance or to get more of it
- Having withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop
A person with an addiction will often experience physical health issues, have problems at school or work, and neglect their appearance. They might also go through drastic behavioral changes in a variety of ways.
Centric Behavioral Health is a leading provider of addiction treatment for women and treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders.