Signs it may be time to get help
A substance use disorder can begin affecting health, relationships, work, and everyday life before a crisis occurs. For military personnel, retired service members, and family members, substance abuse issues may also overlap with anxiety, depression, trauma, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Signs it may be time to seek treatment include:
- Needing more drugs or alcohol to experience the same effects
- Trying to cut back or stop but repeatedly returning to use
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms, cravings, or loss of control
- Falling behind at work, school, home, or in important relationships
- Continuing use despite physical, emotional, financial, or social consequences
- Using substances to manage trauma or other mental health issues
- Pulling away from routines, activities, or people that once mattered






