How is an addiction diagnosed?

Substance abuse: Drug addiction is typically diagnosed after an evaluation by a psychiatrist, psychologist, or a professional addiction counselor. If drug addiction is suspected, the healthcare professional will ask many questions related to their drug use. For instance, if the patient has felt like he/she uses drugs too frequently or if he/she has ever felt guilty about using drugs, it may suggest a drug addiction. Also, if friends or family members have criticized the patient's drug use, or the patient has used drugs first thing in the morning, it may also indicate a drug problem.

Gambling addiction: For compulsive gambling to be diagnosed, at least five of the following signs and symptoms must be present. 1) The patient is preoccupied with gambling. For instance, the individual may be constantly thinking about ways or places to gamble. 2) The patient has tried to stop or limit his/her gambling behaviors without success. 3) The patient needs more and more money to become excited about gambling. 4) The patient continues gambling in an effort to win back lost money. 5) When the patient tries to limit his/her gambling, he/she feels irritable. 6) Gambling is used as a way to escape or temporarily forget problems. 7) The patient lies to friends, family members, and/or loved ones about his/her gambling problem. 8) The patient commits crimes, such as theft or fraud, to get more gambling money. 9) The patient asks others for financial help when they run out of money. 10) The patient risks an important relationship or career or educational career because of their gambling addiction.

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An addiction, also called a substance abuse disorder, is suspected when the obtaining or using of the substance interferes with your ability to complete activities such as work and family obligations or if you are having frequent legal difficulties. People with addictions may also experience withdrawals if they cut down on the substance, sexual dysfunction or high-risk sexual behavior.