What is the Cycle of Addiction?

This is the beginning, when an individual tries an intoxicating substance for the first time. It often happens during adolescence or early adulthood, but it can occur at any age. Curiosity, peer pressure, social settings, stress, or the desire to escape emotional pain are common motivators. At this point, substance use may seem harmless or even fun.

Signs of experimenting with drugs and alcohol include:

• Sudden changes in social circles
• Curiosity or casual conversations about drugs or alcohol
• Increased interest in parties or social events where substances are present
• Slight behavioral changes, such as secrecy or staying out later than usual
• Lack of awareness or concern about potential risks

Use becomes more routine and predictable. The individual may not feel addicted, but the substance begins to serve a specific purpose. This may be relaxing after work, to help with socializing, or coping with stress. Although they may still have control over their use, the behavior becomes a habit.

Signs of this stage include:

• Using substances on weekends or after specific triggers (e.g., stress or conflict)
• Justifying use as “normal” or “social”
• Slight decline in performance at work or school
• Increasing tolerance, i.e. needing more to feel the same effects
• Spending more time or money on the substance

At this stage, use starts to interfere with daily responsibilities and relationships. The individual may engage in risky behaviors, like driving under the influence or mixing different addictive substances. Physical and emotional dependence begins, meaning the body and mind start to rely on the substance to function or feel “normal.”

Signs of drug dependence include:

• Using substances in unsafe situations (e.g., before work or while driving)
• Withdrawal symptoms when not using (this depends on the substance, but may involve irritability, sweating, or nausea)
• Neglecting responsibilities or hobbies
• Mood swings, depression, or anxiety
• Lying or becoming defensive about substance use
• Financial or legal problems due to substance-related behavior

At this stage, the individual loses control over their substance use. They continue using despite significant negative consequences in their life, and more of their time revolves around obtaining and using the substance.​

Signs of addiction may include:

• Loss of control over how much or how often the substance is used
• Continued use despite serious consequences (such as job loss or broken relationships)
• Isolation from family and friends
• Physical deterioration (such as weight loss, lack of hygiene, sleep issues)
• Obsessive thoughts about getting or using the substance
• Failed attempts to quit or cut back

Recovery begins when the individual acknowledges the addiction and seeks help. This stage can include detox, therapy, medication management, peer support, and lifestyle changes. Recovery is not a one-time event, but a continuous process of personal growth and healing.

Initiating recovery may include:

• Willingness to attend treatment or therapy
• Open discussion about the problem
• Development of new routines and healthy coping skills
• Rebuilding of relationships and responsibilities
• Attending support groups like AA or NA
• Ongoing commitment to sobriety and self-care​

Relapse is a return to substance use after a period of abstinence. It’s a common part of the recovery journey — not a failure, but a signal that the treatment plan may need adjustment. Understanding triggers and having a solid relapse prevention plan can help manage this stage.

Signs of relapse to watch for:

• Returning to old environments or friends associated with substance use
• Increased stress, anxiety, or depression
• Skipping therapy sessions or support groups
• Romanticizing past substance use (“It wasn’t that bad”)
• Justifying “one-time” or “controlled” use
• Gradual return of behavioral patterns from earlier stages