Here's some common signs of drug dependency - see if you recognise yourself in any of them. Try to be honest No-one else can know what you're thinking. There's no need to hide anything.

Loss of control
- Repeated failure to cut down or give up the drug, even when you really want to do this.
- Uses drugs or alcohol every day - or most days.

Devious behaviour
- Lying about drug use. Minimising it. Stealing/borrowing money for drugs or booze.
- Hiding drugs or drink from others. Mixing with people who also abuse drugs or alcohol.

Mental obsession
- Life centres around getting more drugs or alcohol. Makes sure supply doesn't run out.

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It's not easy to admit that our drug use can make us behave like this. Lots of people make excuses or blame others for their problem. We need to get past that. We need to acknowledge the reality of our using.

Yet many people with a drug problem find it very difficult to own up to it. This is called DENIAL - Let's see how it works . . .