Addiction is a complex disease. It can stem from trauma, genetics or mental health concerns. However, part of addiction is also physical. These three signs of physical addiction can highlight when you or a loved one has a dependency issue that needs professional attention.
1. Tolerance to the Substance Has Changed
One of the more common and obvious physical signs of addiction has to do with tolerance. Simply using or even abusing a substance doesn’t always mean that you’re addicted to it. Once tolerance starts to build, your body is physically changing to accommodate substance abuse.
When your tolerance changes, it means that you’ll need more of a substance in order to feel the same effects. A year ago, you might have had four alcoholic drinks a day. Thanks to an increase in tolerance, you might now drink six or more every day but feel about the same. The same is true for any drug, and many people find that they increase both the amount and the frequency of use.
2. You Can’t Function Without Access to the Substance
People often misunderstand this symptom. Technically, you might be able to wake up and live life without access to your choice of drugs and alcohol. But would you really be living, or would you be going through the motions?
If you have a physical addiction to a substance, then it will consume you. You might be thinking about it constantly, and you might be planning how to get it and use it. Everything else will become less of a priority. You might also feel unwell, which is a definite sign that you’re also going through withdrawal symptoms without access to the substance.
3. Substance Abuse is Impacting Sleep or Appetite
Physically, an addiction can negatively impact your life in a variety of ways. Most commonly, it can change your sleep patterns or your appetite.
Some substances are stimulants, which means that you’ll find it hard to sleep normally at night. Other substances do the opposite, making you feel drowsy right away. Either way, an addiction to drugs or alcohol can disrupt your sleep.
In the same way, addictive substances can disrupt your appetite. You might not be hungry at all, and many people lose weight suddenly. This can lead to malnutrition, which is often a serious problem.
Overcoming a Physical Addiction to Drugs or Alcohol
Even if have an addiction to drugs or alcohol, there’s good news. You have a variety of addiction resources available to you. At The Dunes of East Hampton, you can overcome addiction with an evidence-based approach. You’ll also have access to luxury, comfort, and privacy.
Some amenities available include:
- Opportunities for local excursions
- Housekeeping staff
- Top-rated chefs
- Equine therapy
- Massage, yoga and meditation therapy
Physical addiction is a big part of the recovery equation. At The Dunes of East Hampton in New York, you’ll be able to overcome your chemical dependence on drugs or alcohol. Call 877-818-5539 to get back on track to a life of sobriety.
