Am I an Addict? Honest Signs It Might Be Time for Support
If you’re reading this right now, part of you already suspects something has shifted. That instinct matters. You don’t need a diagnosis to take it seriously.
We’re Redwood — a private, non-clinical recovery coaching service based in Sydney, Melbourne, and the Gold Coast. We work with people who want to change their relationship with alcohol or substances without the institutional rehab route.
Here are seven questions worth sitting with:
- Are you drinking or using more than you planned to — regularly?
- Have you tried to cut back and found it harder than expected?
- Is alcohol or substance use the first thing you think about when stress hits?
- Have people close to you said something, even once?
- Are you hiding how much you’re using — from others or yourself?
- Do you feel worse (anxious, flat, restless) when you don’t use?
- Has it cost you something — sleep, a relationship, a morning, your word to yourself?
If you answered yes to two or more, it doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means something worth looking at is there.
What’s the difference between a habit and a dependency?
A habit is something you do. A dependency is something that starts doing you. The line isn’t always clean — but when stopping feels impossible rather than just difficult, that’s a signal worth taking seriously.
Do I need to go to rehab?
Not necessarily. Many people navigate significant recovery journeys outside of clinical settings. Non-clinical recovery coaching — like what we offer at Redwood — is structured, private, and built around your life, not a ward schedule.
What if I’m not ready to stop completely?
That’s an honest place to start. Recovery coaching isn’t about forcing an outcome — it’s about building clarity, structure, and momentum at a pace that’s real for you.
Ready to talk?
Redwood offers a confidential first conversation — no paperwork, no clinical intake, no pressure. Call or message us directly.
About Redwood Recovery
Redwood Recovery is a private, non-clinical addiction recovery coaching service founded by Ashley Hayward, who works from lived experience of addiction and recovery. Coaching is practical, confidential support built around your life — it is not medical treatment, therapy or a diagnosis, and it does not replace clinical care where that is needed.
If you or someone you love is in immediate danger, call 000. For free, confidential 24/7 support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.