How do you know you have a problem?

Many people struggle with substance use without fully realizing the impact it has on their lives. Sometimes, the signs are subtle and easy to dismiss. Other times, they become impossible to ignore. Understanding these signs is the first step toward making a change. If you have ever wondered whether your drinking or drug use has become a problem, this post will help you identify key indicators and offer guidance on how to move toward sobriety.

Are you living in the shadow of your substance?

Your Use Has Increased

One of the clearest signs of a developing problem is an increase in how much you drink or use drugs. This might happen gradually, so it can be hard to notice. For many people, drinking or using started as an occasional indulgence or social activity — harmless fun with friends, a way to unwind. But over time, the occasional indulgence can become a baseline — after work, you always have a drink. During lunch, you take a hit of something.

This increase often happens because your body and mind begin to crave the substance. Tolerance builds, meaning you need more to feel the same effects. This cycle can quickly lead to dependence.

Q. Are you using more than you did a year ago?

Your Work Has Suffered

When substance use starts to interfere with your job or daily responsibilities, it is a serious warning sign. You might notice:

• Missing deadlines

• Lower quality of work

• Frequent absences or lateness

• Difficulty concentrating or remembering tasks

  
  

These changes can affect your reputation and career, but they also impact your self-esteem and mental health.

For stimulant users, it is quite common to start thinking that that you NEED the substance to do your work. This is a difficult trap to escape from.

Q. Has your work been impacted by your use?

Other People Are Starting to Notice or Comment

Friends, family, and coworkers often see changes before you do. They might express concern or make comments about your behavior. This can feel uncomfortable or even frustrating, but it is a sign that your substance use is visible and affecting your relationships.

Sometimes people might say things like:

• "Are you okay?"

• "I’m worried about how much you’re drinking."

• "Have you thought about cutting back?"

  
  

Unfortunately, when friends or loved ones confront us about our use, we make excuses or offer benign explanations — "I've been getting over a cold" or "I'm just not sleeping well." As things get worse, we can start to avoid those people, cutting them out of our lives. This increases our isolation and shame, which usually drives us back to the substance.

Q. Has anyone said anything to you about your use or its effects on you?

You Have Tried to Stop and Couldn’t

Many people with substance problems want to quit or cut back but find it difficult. You might have tried to stop on your own but experienced strong cravings, withdrawal symptoms, or relapses. This struggle is common and does not mean failure. It means your body and mind have adapted to the substance, and you need support.

Recognizing this pattern is important because it shows you are ready for help. You don’t have to face this alone. Almost no one gets sober completely on their own.

Q. Have you tried to stop or cut down with little success?

You Know. And You’ve Known.

Deep down, you already know you have a problem. You might have ignored it or pushed it aside, but the truth is there.

Still — you can simultaneously know and NOT know, because the human capacity for denial is incredibly powerful. It's hard to admit a problem when we don't believe we can be helped, or understand how to make lasting change. But this kernel of awareness is a powerful starting point.

Q. Are you ready to admit you have a problem and need help?

How I Can Help You Find Sobriety

If you recognize any of these signs in yourself, you are not alone. Many people face similar struggles and find hope through sober coaching. My coaching services provide personalized support to help you:

• Understand your relationship with substances

• Develop practical strategies to reduce or stop use

• Build healthy habits and coping skills

• Stay motivated and accountable

• Navigate challenges and setbacks

  
  

Together, we will create a plan that fits your life and goals. You will have someone to listen without judgment and guide you every step of the way.

Recovery is possible, and it starts with one step. If you are ready to explore sobriety and regain control, reach out today. You deserve a life free from the hold of substances, filled with clarity, health, and hope.