When some people think of addiction, they think about addicts who have ruined their lives… but in reality addiction can be easy to hide. Addiction can also affect anyone.

This means that is totally possible to date an addict without realising – but doing so will likely cause you a lot of trauma and pain. This is because people who are actively addicted to something often put their drug above their romantic partner, which can lead to lies, deceit and potentially unfaithfulness.

Here are four types of addiction to look out for when you are dating.

1. Sex Addiction

Sex addiction isn’t often talked about, but it is fairly common in society. People who are addicted to sex will spend a large amount of time looking for sex, and they often watch a large amount of pornography. This can warp their view of sex and make them emotionally unavailable, and it can also lead to cheating.

2. Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol is one of the most common addictions; in fact, around 15 million Americans are currently suffering from alcohol addiction. Addicts will drink frequently and heavily, and they can seem like a lot of fun when they are drunk – but if they can’t access alcohol they will become withdrawn, frustrated and angry.

3. Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is also fairly common, but it can be fairly difficult to spot a drug addict if you don’t have experience with drugs. Normally they have mood swings that are difficult to understand (such as sudden happiness for no reason), and they may often conceal their phone (or their whereabouts) from their partner.

4. Gambling Addiction

Someone who is addicted to gambling will regularly spend time placing bets, and their financial situation might seem rocky. They may also constantly try to start bets in real life.

5. Remember You Are Not A Therapist

If you think that you are dating someone with an addiction, try to remember that you are not a therapist. It isn’t your job to fix someone else, especially if the addict isn’t ready to change or get help.

If you really like the person and you want to make it work, consider sitting down with them and asking them about their addiction. Be loving and supportive (rather than judgemental), and try to get them to open up. If they are ready to seek help you may decide to stay with them and support them, but don’t forget that addiction can be tricky. If they continue to hurt you with their actions, put yourself first and walk away from the situation.