Alcohol and drug addiction affect many people globally. But it can be challenging to identify signs of addiction in your loved ones. The manifestations brought about by addiction are not just limited to physical signs, but also psychological and behavioral changes as well. Thankfully, concerned friends and family can educate themselves on the easily identifiable signs of addiction. If you notice any of the red flags below in someone you love, they may be struggling with addiction. Fresh Start Recovery Center can offer therapy and outpatient treatment to help individuals heal from and overcome addiction.
Physical Signs of Addiction
For a lot of people, realizing that a loved one is suffering from substance addiction can come as a shock. Why didn’t I realize this problem earlier? How did this happen to someone in the same household as me? Don’t be too hard on yourself. It is important to note that physical changes happen gradually. Also, those suffering from addiction can go to great lengths to hide physical signs such as:
- Tremors
- Extreme lethargy
- Irregular sleeping pattern
- Poor personal hygiene
- Loss of physical coordination
- Husky voice
- Changes in Appearance
A person with an addiction problem is most likely to undergo physical appearance changes since addiction suppresses or intensifies one’s appetite. An addict may experience rapid weight gain or loss.
It is also common for addicts to let complacency set in. When this happens, the clothes they wear or the way they take care of themselves may change. For instance, someone who used to take time getting ready in the morning will suddenly start choosing to wear shirts from their laundry basket or stop taking showers.
Mood Swings
Mood swings are normal for every individual. But when someone you love who is usually quite calm is suddenly out of control, this may be a sign of addiction. Alternatively, someone who used to be very outgoing can suddenly become depressed. Erratic mood swings that are out of the norm is something you should always be watchful for since this behavior could also indicate mental health issues requiring treatment.
Signs of Addiction: Increased Isolation And Avoiding Responsibilities
Those who experience addiction can isolate themselves emotionally, socially, or mentally. They may not spend time with their family, partners, children, or friends to avoid queries about where their money goes or why they are losing weight.
Another thing you should look out for is if a person is suddenly becoming defensive or secretive. Someone struggling with addiction can withdraw themselves from those they care about and seek privacy to feed their addiction. They feel as if they need to keep their alcohol or drug addiction a secret, and this drives them to lie about their activities.
If someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may neglect their daily responsibilities, such as going to school or work, taking care of their children or pets, or cleaning their house. Addicts are also notorious for totally ignoring obligations and deadlines, or forgetting important events like meetings.
Sleeping Habits And Financial Problems
Any substance can wreak havoc on your sleeping habits. Someone who is dealing with addiction can struggle with erratic sleeping habits, which can manifest in staying up late or oversleeping. When people partake in substances, they need to stay awake for a long period so they can maintain the high. As a result, this makes way for excessive sleep or crashing.
All kinds of addiction can be expensive. Someone dealing with addiction may be forced to borrow money from friends or family, or even sell their prized possessions. If this is not dealt with, they could risk putting themselves in great financial stress.
Fresh Start Recovery Center
The signs of addiction vary from person to person and on the type of addiction they are dealing with. Addictive behaviors can lead to various negative consequences, such as failed relationships, reduced school performance for young adults or poor work performance for business professionals, financial problems, and serious health issues. If you notice someone you love experiencing signs of addiction, take action, and encourage them to seek help immediately before it’s too late. So reach out to Fresh Start Recovery Center at 833.625.0398.
