For the newcomer

Do I have a drug problem?

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If you are asking the question at all, some part of you already senses the answer is worth looking at. That does not make you an addict, and you do not have to decide what you are today. It just means it is worth an honest look.

Signs people recognise

No single one of these settles it, and having a few does not hand you a label. But the more that feel familiar, the more your drug use is worth paying attention to.

  • You have tried to cut down or stop, and it has not stuck.
  • You need more than you used to for the same effect.
  • You use to cope or to feel normal, more than to enjoy.
  • You think about it a lot when you are not using.
  • You hide it, or play it down, to people you trust.
  • Work, money, health or relationships are slipping.
  • You feel rough or unwell when you stop.
  • You carry on despite knowing the harm it is doing.

There is a two-minute check

If you would rather answer questions than read a list, the DAST-10 is a short, widely used screen. It is scored on your device, and nothing is saved or sent.

You do not have to call yourself an addict

You do not have to decide what you are before you are allowed help. The only requirement for Narcotics Anonymous membership is a desire to stop using, and you can sit in on an open meeting with nothing but curiosity. If a 12-step approach is not for you, SMART Recovery is a practical, secular alternative, and your GP or a free local drug service can help too.

Stopping safely

How you stop depends on the drug. Coming off some drugs suddenly, especially benzodiazepines and opioids, can be dangerous. If you use most days, please speak to your GP, a local drug service, FRANK (0300 123 6600), or NHS 111 before cutting down sharply, so it can be done safely. This is routine for them, with no judgement.

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