Control
Think about the last month, not your worst day.
- Do sessions often continue much longer than you decided?
- Have you repeatedly tried to reduce or stop and been unable to follow the plan?
- Do urges feel automatic even when you would rather do something else?
- Does the behaviour continue when it is no longer satisfying?
Time and consequences
Look for patterns rather than shame.
- Is sleep, work, school, caregiving or another responsibility regularly displaced?
- Have spending, secrecy or broken agreements created conflict?
- Are you withdrawing from friends, partnered intimacy or activities you value?
- Do consequences continue to accumulate while the pattern stays the same?
Physical effects and safety
Do you continue through soreness, numbness, skin injury or exhaustion? Have you delayed healthcare because you were embarrassed? Physical warning signs deserve ordinary medical care.
How to interpret your answers
There is no cutoff score. One serious consequence can matter more than several mild concerns. If you see a pattern of reduced control and real-life impairment, try a concrete change and consider speaking with a professional.
High desire or frequent activity without loss of control or impairment does not by itself indicate a disorder.
If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8 in Canada. Call 9-1-1 if safety is at immediate risk.