Am I Addicted?
Whether opioid abuse results from an initial goal of controlling pain, or it’s the direct result of abusing illicit street drugs such as heroin, the end result, the addiction, is the same. Recognizing an opiate addiction early on can make a difference between life and death. If you or someone you love is abusing opiates such as prescription painkillers, heroin or similar drugs, learning how to recognize the signs of addiction and the subsequent need for treatment may save a life.
Answer the following questions as truthfully as you can. If you answer yes to any of the following questions, consider discussing your drug use with a counselor, treatment specialist or a doctor. If you’re still not sure whether opioid addiction is prevalent in your life, consider calling our helpline at 800-466-0354 ( Who Answers?) to speak with a treatment advisor who can assist you in understanding the potential for opiate addiction and in finding quality care that will suit your needs.
In the past 12 months:
- Have you ever abused drugs such as painkillers for any reason other than prescribed?
- Have you ever used prescription painkillers that were not prescribed?
- Have you ever taken more of a prescription than was ordered by your doctor?
- Do you use heroin or painkillers in conjunction with other substances such as drugs or alcohol?
- Have you tried to quit taking heroin or an opiate such as Oxycontin and failed?
- Are you always able to quit using drugs when you decide to?
- Have you suffered a blackout during drug use?
- Have you had flashbacks of times when you were high?
- Does your drug use make you feel sad, mad or guilty?
- Does your spouse complain about your substance use?
- Does your family complain about your substance use?
- Have you ever engaged in an illegal activity in an effort to obtain drugs?
- Have you ever felt sick when you stopped taking a painkiller or stopped using heroin?
- Have you neglected your job or responsibilities at home as a result of your drug use?
- Have you neglected your family as a result of your drug use?
- Have you experienced medical problems such as STD, overdose, bleeding, infection or memory loss as a result of your drug use?
- Do you lie to your family or friends about your drug use?
- Have you made promises to quit?
Disclaimer
The results of this opioid addiction self-test are not intended to constitute a diagnosis. Drug addiction should be diagnosed by a healthcare provider, substance abuse specialist or counselor. This self-test is to be used solely as a guide to help you understand whether your drug use may be raising risks in your life and whether further evaluation by a healthcare professional should be considered.
If you suspect that you or someone you love is addicted to an opioid, seek prompt medical attention for help. Our helpline 800-466-0354 ( Who Answers?) is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help you find qualified health professionals who can assist you in understanding your addiction and getting the help that you may need.