Watching someone you love suffer through a substance abuse problem is stressful and upsetting. Addiction is a treatable disease, but waiting until your loved one hits rock bottom before asking for help puts them and you at risk. If you notice any of these signs, getting treatment now can change your lives for the better.
The Signs and Symptoms of Drug Abuse
Just because your loved one doesn’t live on the street or steal money for drugs doesn’t mean they won’t benefit from help. The earlier they get treatment, the more likely they are to stay sober and the easier it will be to rebuild their life. If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, it’s time to get help:
- He/She denies, lies and hides substance abuse
- He/She keeps using, even though the original pain or anxiety symptoms have passed
- He/She gets extra prescriptions just in case it runs out
- He/She takes more than the recommended dose
- He/She is forgetful or ignores important responsibilities
- He/She avoids old friends and stops participating in favorite hobbies
- He/She demonstrates obvious changes in physical health and appearance, including weight, skin quality, dental hygiene, sleeping and eating habits, or gastrointestinal problems
- He/She alternates between opposite behaviors, such as exhaustion and mania, or irritability and euphoria
- He/She keeps evidence of abuse nearby, such as needles and spoons, aluminum foil, pill bottles, pipes, paper or plastic bags, or containers of household chemicals
- He/She has problems with money, close relationships, work or with their reputation
The Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism
Individuals with alcoholism demonstrate many of these symptoms, such as problems at work or with money. They also deny addiction is a problem, and lie about how much or when they use. It’s often more difficult to identify alcoholism, however, because the earliest stages can look like almost-safe drinking habits. Early stage alcoholism signs include:
- Drinking in the morning
- Binge drinking with greater frequency
- Feeling embarrassed about things that happened while drinking
- Blacking out
How Treatment Helps
Did you know that most people who get help and stay involved in long-term treatment most always recover from addiction? The National Institute on Drug Abuse and the Journal of the American Medical Association report that individuals who approach addiction treatment as they would other chronic, relapsing diseases are more likely to get and stay sober. Addiction is not a life sentence, and with proactive management, you and your loved one can live a fulfilling and sober lifestyle.
According to the NIDA, customized care that includes ongoing behavioral and psychological therapies, physical fitness and nutrition training, and life skills training is most likely to result in sobriety. If your loved one suffers from a disorder such as depression or anxiety, getting treatment can have an even greater impact.
Call 12 Keys for More Information
For more information about the signs and symptoms of addiction, or to learn more about our comprehensive holistic recovery program, call 12 Keys today.