The mentality of an addict: Five things you'll notice

Addiction is a real cruel beast and can take a serious toll not only on those suffering from it, but those around them too.

21:42 26 August 2024

Addiction is a real cruel beast and can take a serious toll not only on those suffering from it, but those around them too. 

Whether struggling with alcohol or living with an addiction of harder drugs like cocaine and heroin, there are certain traits you can spot in the mind of an addict, of which it can then certainly ring alarm bells to get them help.

It's so important to encourage loved ones and friends with the help they need, putting them in contact with the likes of support groups, counsellors and alcohol, cocaine or a heroin rehab centre to get their lives back on track.

Spotting those traits though is an important step, so here are five common things you’ll notice in the mentality of an addict…

Denial of the Problem

One of the most prominent features you’ll see within the mindset of an addict is the denial they will have that they are exactly that.

Despite the clear signs of the impact their addiction is having on their life, they will refuse to acknowledge that they have a problem, or that the problem that they have is related to drugs or alcohol, for example.

They’ll instead blame external factors or even outright reject that their behaviour is problematic. Getting past denial is one of the key steps in recognising there is a problem and help is required. 

Obsessive Focus on the Addiction

While they won’t consider themselves addicted, their thought process will revolve around the substance they’re addicted to.

For example, alcoholics will find that their life revolves around the pub, or wine will be at the top of the shopping list. The likes of hobbies, relationships, even work in many cases will take a backseat and their addiction will be the core focus, failing to see the bigger picture.

Manipulation and Deception

A common tactic to get what they want is through manipulation and deception. Lying is prominent in order to protect their habit, while situations will be manipulated to ensure their addiction can be fed.

This can range greatly, from false promises on quitting to hiding their intake. This can really damage trust in relationships that become difficult to repair. 

A Cycle of Guilt and Shame

Addicts can become trapped in a destructive cycle of shame and guilt, feeling the highs of taking it but then feeling severe cases of self-loathing and guilt following those periods.

They could well recognise the harm that they’re causing but actually guilt, combined with the come downs exacerbating that can lead to a sense of worthlessness that only continues the cycle of addiction. 

Resistance to Help

Finally, a significant aspect of the mentality of an addict is a resistance to help. Even when faced with the negative consequences of their addiction, addicts often resist offers of help or treatment. This resistance can stem from various factors, including fear of change, denial of the problem, or a belief that they can handle the situation on their own. 

The thought of giving up their addiction can be terrifying, as it has often become a coping mechanism for dealing with deeper emotional issues. Overcoming this resistance is a crucial step in the recovery process, but it often requires patience, persistence, and support from loved ones and professionals.