Drug Addiction Self-Assessment Test
Every individual has unique experiences and struggles. As our lives get busier and more stressful, finding solace in various outlets is easy. But what happens when that solace turns into dependency? This Drug Addiction Test might help you recognize patterns and seek necessary assistance.
What Is Drug Addiction?
Drug addiction is a complex and often chronic brain disease. It’s characterized by drug craving, seeking, and use that can be hard to control, even with negative consequences. Addiction is not just about narcotics, stimulants, or depressants. It encompasses an array of substances that can interfere with one’s ability to lead a balanced, fulfilling life.
Why Take The Drug Addiction Test?
Understanding where you stand is the first step to reclaiming control. This self-assessment test helps you reflect on your habits, recognize signs of addiction, and make informed decisions about your next steps.
Expert Insight
Dr. Nora D. Volkow is the Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health. She’s a pioneering researcher in addiction and has contributed extensively to our understanding of the harmful effects of drugs on the brain and the nature of addiction as a disease. Dr. Volkow has advocated for a shift in how society views drug addiction – not as a moral failing but as a medical condition that can be treated.
Dr. Volkow emphasizes that drug addiction is a brain disease that affects behavior. Her research shows how drugs alter the brain’s structure and function, leading to changes in behavior and the compulsive drug use that characterizes addiction. She underscores the importance of early intervention and evidence-based treatments, advocating for an integrated approach to addiction that considers its medical, social, and psychological dimensions.
How the Test Works
Answer the questions honestly, reflecting on your experiences in the past year. It’s important to remember there’s no judgment—only a pathway to better understanding.
Recommendations to Prevent it:
- Educate yourself on the dangers of drug abuse.
- Seek therapy or counseling.
- Engage in physical activities or hobbies.
- Build a robust support system.
- Avoid triggers and risky environments.
Important Note
This test is not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. It aims to provide a general insight. For a comprehensive evaluation, please consult a healthcare provider.
Instructions:
Answer each question based on your experiences over the past year. Be honest and considerate of the entire 12-month period.
Disclaimer
This self-assessment is for informational purposes only. The results should not be used as a definitive diagnosis.
Try Other Addiction Tests
- Alcohol Addiction Test: Discover Your Drinking Patterns
- Digital Dependency: The Ultimate Internet Addiction Test
- Question of
How often do you take drugs recreationally?
- Hardly ever
- Rarely
- Sometimes
- Often
- Very often
Correct Wrong
- Question of
Have you taken more drugs than you meant to?
- Never
- A couple of times
- Several times
- Many times
Correct Wrong
- Question of
I neglect my responsibilities because of drug use.
- Strongly disagree
- Disagree
- Partly agree
- Agree
- Strongly agree
Correct Wrong
- Question of
To what extent have drugs interfered with your work or school?
- Not At All
- A little Bit
- To some extent
- To a significant extent
- To a great extent
Correct Wrong
- Question of
How frequently do you take drugs to relieve stress or emotional pain?
- Rarely
- Sometimes
- Often
- Very often
- Not At All
Correct Wrong
- Question of
How often do you think about drugs or look forward to the next time you can use them?
- Hardly ever
- Rarely
- Sometimes
- Often
- Very often
Correct Wrong
- Question of
Have you tried to reduce your drug use but failed?
- Never
- A couple of times
- Several times
- Many times
Correct Wrong
- Question of
I feel a persistent desire or unsuccessful effort to cut down or control drug use.
- Strongly disagree
- Disagree
- Partly agree
- Agree
- Strongly agree
Correct Wrong
- Question of
To what extent do you spend significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of drugs?
- Not At All
- A little Bit
- To some extent
- To a significant extent
- To a great extent
Correct Wrong
- Question of
How often do you forsake important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of drug use?
- Rarely
- Sometimes
- Often
- Very often
- Not At All
Correct Wrong
- Question of
How often do you use drugs, even when it puts you in danger, such as driving a vehicle or operating machinery?
- Hardly ever
- Rarely
- Sometimes
- Often
- Very often
Correct Wrong
- Question of
Have you continued to use drugs despite knowing the harm they’re causing to your physical or mental health?
- Never
- A couple of times
- Several times
- Many times
Correct Wrong
- Question of
I have developed a tolerance, meaning I need to use more of the drug to get the desired effect or experience reduced effects when using the same amount.
- Strongly disagree
- Disagree
- Partly agree
- Agree
- Strongly agree
Correct Wrong
- Question of
To what extent do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop using the drug or use the drug to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms?
- Not At All
- A little Bit
- To some extent
- To a significant extent
- To a great extent
Correct Wrong
- Question of
How often do you take a drug in larger amounts or over a longer period than intended?
- Rarely
- Sometimes
- Often
- Very often
- Not At All
Correct Wrong