When you have someone close who is addicted, addiction can be challenging to discuss. Whether that be a family member, friend, or partner, detecting the signs of addiction early on can greatly impact getting them the help they require. Addiction manifests differently in different people, but there are red flags that could mean a person is having a hard time. This is how to recognize the signs of addiction in a loved one and support them in taking the first step toward recovery.
Changes in Behavior
One major sign someone is dealing with addiction is a change in their behavior. People with addictions may gradually withdraw from things they used to enjoy, increasingly spend time alone, or separate themselves from friends and family. They might also behave differently than usual, such as by being so secretive or defensive about their whereabouts or activities.
Someone who was once gregarious may suddenly be withdrawn, irritable, or detached. They might also experience mood swings, from intense euphoria when they’re using to deep sadness or frustration when they’re not.
Physical Signs
Addiction is often physical in nature. You may notice some physical signs that indicate the possibility of addiction to substances that are considered physical signs. These may include:
- Changes in appearance: They may show signs of weight loss or gain, poor hygiene, a lack of interest in personal grooming. Also, problems with the skin, red eyes and altered speech or coordination are red flags.
- Illness or frequent tiredness: Addiction wears the body down. If someone you love appears sluggish, frequently ill, or always tired, the physical effects of regular substance use may be the cause. This type of constant exhaustion could stand out in someone who relies on substance to cope with stress or emotional wellbeing.
- dilated or constricted Pupils: Many medications, including stimulants and opiates, induce size modifications. For example, some drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine dilate pupils, while others like opioids constrict them. Being unable to fulfil obligations decreased responsibility. Another key sign of addiction is a lack of ability for someone to fulfill their role. The individual may cease working, attending school, or fulfilling family responsibilities. They may be late for appointments, miss deadlines, or avoid responsibility entirely. This may be expensive for the loved ones who may be feeling ignored or left behind. Everything is possible that you become poor with money, purchasing substances rather than paying bills or putting it into savings. They take chances. They indulge in actions that are hazardous. This may manifest as driving while drunk, making terrible decisions when inebriated, or doing something criminal to support one’s addiction. If you have seen someone do things like this that they do not normally, they may have an addiction.
Changes in Social Circles
When you fall into Addiction you may start to have a new group of friends or acquaintances who share the same lifestyle or habits as you. Often this includes people who facilitate or encourage the addictive behavior. If you see your loved one hanging with a different crowd, one particularly who show signs of being addicted as well, it could be a sign that addiction is playing a bigger role in their life.
Defensiveness and Denial
People who are addicted to substances often deny their problems, even in the face of obvious evidence. If you challenge a loved one over his or her behavior, the response may be defensiveness, anger or a refusal to acknowledge that a problem exists. Addiction often comes with denial, which makes it hard for family and friends to assist. In such cases, patience and repeated conversations may be needed to convince them to request assistance.
Conclusion
Signs of Addiction in a Loved One: What Can You Do? Remember that addiction is an incredibly difficult condition to overcome, so be patient with the process and do your best to listen and empathize with the struggles your partner may face. If you believe that a loved one is struggling with addiction, it’s important to encourage them to get help from a professional, be it a therapist, counselor or rehabilitation program. The sooner addiction is treated the better chances your loved one has at reclaiming their life and beginning the path of recovery.
Contact the best drug rehabilitation centre in Delhi, if you need help in addiction for yourself or for your loved ones.