Signs, Symptoms, & Getting a Diagnosis
If you’re worried about substance use or mental health, you’re not alone. This guide explains common signs, what a professional assessment looks like, and how a licensed clinician makes a diagnosis.
Our website is for information only. We help you understand your options and prepare for conversations with licensed providers, but we do not diagnose, treat, or guarantee outcomes.
What’s the Difference Between Signs, Symptoms, & Diagnosis?
Signs are things others might notice: missing work or school, mood swings, red eyes, sleeping too much or too little.
Symptoms are what you feel: cravings, anxiety, low mood, panic, trouble focusing, or feeling out of control with alcohol or drugs.
Diagnosis is a clinical decision made by a licensed professional after an assessment. It guides your treatment plan and insurance coverage.
Common Signs to Watch For
Changes in Daily Life
Falling behind at school or work, skipping plans, losing interest in hobbies, money problems, new legal issues, or relationship conflict.
Physical Clues
Shakes or sweating, poor sleep, weight changes, frequent nausea or headaches, fast heartbeat (stimulants) or slowed breathing (opioids/sedatives), repeated vomiting with heavy cannabis use.
Emotional/Mental Signs
Cravings, irritability, mood swings, anxiety, panic, low mood, paranoia, or seeing/hearing things others don’t (seek help urgently if this happens)
When to Seek Help
There are varying degrees of urgency when it comes to addiction:
Green (sooner is better): You’re worried, noticing patterns, or friends have raised concerns. Start with a confidential call or a screening.
Yellow (prompt): Strong cravings, using more than you planned, using to sleep or cope most days, or problems at school/work/home. Schedule a full assessment.
Red (urgent): Trouble breathing, chest pain, seizures, severe confusion, thoughts of self-harm, or severe withdrawal. Use emergency services now; online information can’t manage crises.
What Happens in a Professional Assessment
A licensed clinician asks about:
- Substance use history: what, how much, how often, last use, mixing with alcohol/meds
- Mental health: mood, anxiety, trauma, sleep, attention
- Medical safety: current symptoms, medications, pregnancies, allergies
- Home & support: housing, family, school/work, transportation
- Goals: what you want help with first
Addiction and mental health treatment specialists may use brief questionnaires (simple checklists) to understand patterns. The outcome is a recommendation for the level of care that fits your safety, support, and goals.
Levels of Care at a Glance
Detox (Withdrawal Support):
short-term medical care to manage risky or uncomfortable withdrawal
Inpatient/Residential: 24/7 structure when risks are higher or home isn’t stable
PHP (Day Program): Structured support without overnight stays
IOP: Strong support most days or several evenings each week
Outpatient: Flexible, less frequent sessions to support ongoing recovery
Telehealth: Virtual sessions when symptoms are milder and home is stable
Screening vs. Diagnosis
Screening:
Quick check to see if a deeper look is needed.
Diagnosis:
Full clinical picture that supports a treatment plan and, often, insurance approval.
You don’t have to “prove” anything to ask for help. Honest answers help your team keep you safe.
What to Bring to an Assessment
- Photo ID and insurance card (if you have one)
- A list of medications, vitamins, and supplements
- Approximate dates/amounts of recent use (it’s okay if not exact)
- Medical history and allergies
- Your top 3 goals and any questions
- A support person (optional), if you want
Withdrawal & Safety Basics
Some withdrawals can be dangerous (e.g., alcohol or benzodiazepines). Others may be very uncomfortable and lead to return to use (e.g., opioids). Do not start or stop on your own; ask if medical detox or a supervised taper is safer.
Co-Occurring (Dual Diagnosis)
Substance use and mental health often overlap. Integrated care treats both together. This can include therapy, skills, and, when appropriate, medication. With care for co-occurring conditions, you can improve safety, mood, and long-term stability.
Insurance & Costs
Coverage depends on your plan, network, and medical needs. Programs can check benefits, but your insurer makes the final decision. Ask about self-pay or payment plans if needed.
Myths vs. Facts
- MYTH
“If I’m not using every day, I can’t have a problem.”
- FACT
Patterns vary. Impact on life and safety matters most.
- MYTH
“A diagnosis will follow me forever.”
- FACT
It guides care now; privacy laws protect your health information.
- MYTH
“If I ask for help, I’ll be forced into treatment.”
- FACT
You choose. Clinicians recommend; you decide—except in rare legal/safety emergencies.
How to Start
Write down your top concerns and goals
Choose 2–3 programs to call
Ask about licenses/accreditation, levels of care, schedules, and aftercare
Verify insurance benefits and expected costs
Plan transportation, childcare, or telehealth if needed
FAQs
Can I get an assessment online?
Often, yes. Many programs offer telehealth assessments. Some testing or lab work may still need in-person follow-up.
Will I get a diagnosis on the first visit?
Sometimes. Other times the clinician needs more information or monitoring. The first goal is safety and a workable plan.
What if I’m using more than one substance?
That’s common. Be open about everything you’re using, including prescriptions. Mixed use changes safety and treatment plans.
Do I have to take medication?
No. Medication is offered only when clinically appropriate and with informed consent. Your prescriber explains risks, benefits, and alternatives.
Can I work or study during treatment?
Ask about IOP or telehealth. Many programs offer evening options to fit your schedule.
Helpful Resources
In Crisis? Get Immediate Help.
If you are in danger or thinking of self-harm, call 911 (or your local emergency number). In the US, dial or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.