According to John Hopkins Medicine, over 20 million Americans 12 and older face substance use disorders every day.
Is someone you love showing signs of addiction? If you’re unsure what addiction might look like, you can learn some of the signs to look for in the following guide.
Keep reading to learn more so you can help the people in your life who are suffering.
1. Physical Signs to Look For
The CDC estimates more than 100,000 Americans died from drug overdoses in 2021. Taking action early on can save your loved one’s life.
Small changes to your loved one’s appearance can point to a growing addiction problem. Red eyes or dilated pupils can indicate drug problems. Constant itching in one spot of the body, sniffling, and slurred speech are also common physical indicators of drug abuse.
Certain drugs can also suppress appetites which can lead to sudden weight loss. Loss of interest in grooming and body cleanliness can be associated with addiction as well.
If these physical reactions persist, you might want to consider searching for a health clinic that can help your loved one with their addiction problem.
2. Behavioral Changes You Might Notice
While these behavioral changes aren’t necessarily tied to a drug or alcohol problem, it’s important to look out for these changes in case there is a growing issue.
Obsessive behaviors are common in addicts. Their entire life becomes about doing drugs or drinking alcohol.
If you start to see your loved ones throw their obligations to the wayside, this could indicate there’s a bigger issue. An addict will start to have problems at work or disregard their responsibilities to their family.
Increasingly harmful behaviors like going without sleep for days or driving while under the influence are common with addicts too.
These behavioral changes can take a toll on your loved one’s mental health or worsen existing mental health conditions. Seeking help from a mental health clinic is the best thing you can do for them.
3. Paraphernalia You Might Find
While having certain items in their possession doesn’t always point to a drug problem, you should still be aware of some of the paraphernalia you might find on an addict. Pipes, syringes, burnt spoons, and prescribed medication from multiple doctors are some items an addict might have.
Once you’ve confirmed your loved one is abusing drugs or alcohol, you’ll want to consider addiction counseling. There are many benefits to attending addiction counseling, like having a support system and finding the recovery process that works best.
Look for These Signs of Addiction
If you think your loved one is suffering, it’s important to know the signs of addiction so you can get them the help they need. Take note of the physical and behavioral changes most common in addicts.
You’re loved one doesn’t have to suffer alone. There are many treatment options and mental health services we can provide at Arthur Nagel Community Clinic.
We serve eligible residents ages 12 and older in Bandera County, Texas. Contact us today to learn how we can help your family.