A substance abuse problem can often come without warning to the loved ones of a newfound alcohol or drug abuser. It can seem like the blink of an eye and all of a sudden your mother, father, sister, brother, husband or wife has morphed into an entirely different person that the one you once knew. Their priorities shift, your communication and closeness suffers, and no matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to get on the same page with them anymore. You’re growing farther and farther apart and it all seems to happen before you can think of anything to do about it. While a substance abuse problem can seem like it develops overnight, it doesn’t. There is almost always a progression that takes place, which means that there are absolutely warning signs to be aware of and problems that can be tackled amongst family and friends before full blown addiction sets in.
Signs of a Substance Abuse Problem
When an individual is abusing drugs and alcohol at a habitual pace, the last thing they want is for anyone to notice, especially those closest to them. They’ll go about as far out of their way as they possibly can to hide it from their friends and family so here are a few warning signs to look for if you are concerned that a loved one may have developed a substance abuse problem as provided by the Harvard Health Publications, an output of the Harvard Medical School:
Physical Signs of a Substance Abuse Problem
- Bloodshot eyes, pupils larger or smaller than they normally are
- Changes in appetite or sleep patters
- Sudden weight loss or weight gain
- Losing concern with physical appearance and personal grooming habits
- Unusual odor on breath, body or clothing
- Tremors, slurred speech or impaired coordination
Behavioral Signs of a Substance Abuse Problem
- Drop in attendance and performance at work or school
- Unexplained need for money or financial problems- may borrow or steal to get it
- Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors
- Sudden change in friends, hangouts and hobbies
- Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents etc)
Psychological Signs of a Substance Abuse Problem
- Unexplained change in personality or attitude
- Sudden mood swings or irritability
- Periods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation or giddiness
- Lack of motivation; appearing lethargic
- Appears fearful, anxious or paranoid without merit
While these signs of course cannot guarantee that your loved one does or does not have a substance abuse problem, they are a fairly accurate barometer if several of the signs are there.
Destination Hope is a full service drug, alcohol and dual diagnosis facility in Florida for men with substance abuse issues. If you’ve consulted the warning signs above and are concerned that your loved one might have a substance abuse problem, do yourself a favor and please contact one of the experienced admissions counselors at Destination Hope today at 1-877-380-9777. The longer it goes, the more difficult it will be for them to stop. Help them get started on their recovery efforts today.
