Any of the following can be signs of dependence on alcohol or drugs:

Loss of control - attempts to control use fail despite promises to self and others; blackouts - inability to recall all or part of a drinking episode; (alcohol only) increased tolerance - more of the substance is needed than before to obtain the same effects, as well as the ability to use more than most people; continued substance use despite academic, legal, health, financial, relationship and/or other problems; changes in personality; neglect of responsibilities; preoccupation - frequent thoughts of using while participating in non-using activities like work and church. Non-using activities and acquaintances often are avoided; "pre-partying" - drinking before a social event . Drinking is done to get drunk as quickly as possible; denial and minimizing –One feels that substance use is not a problem and/or tries to justify use. prone to suffer accidents, injuries and illness; uses to feel "normal" , to cope, to escape and solve problems, or feel like everyone else; and uses in the morning - often to control or avoid withdrawal symptoms. Tremors or "shakes" are often the result of withdrawal symptoms.