With fentanyl and other dangerous substances on the streets, drug addiction (of any kind) is nothing to play around with. Over 71,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in the first nine months last year, which is 50% higher than pre-Covid levels.
Consequently, if you believe your loved one is abusing drugs, there’s no time to waste. To help, you’ll first have to learn the signs of drug addiction. Here’s what you need to know.
Behavioral Signs of Drug Addiction
Not everybody addicted to drugs will behave the same way, especially when using different substances. However, here are some common behavioral signs to watch out for:
- Financial troubles
- Lying about whereabouts
- Spending time with the “wrong crowd”
- Poor grooming
- Covering body parts (i.e. needle marks on arms)
- Poor work performance
- Loss of interest in hobbies
- Defensiveness about substance use
Of course, these don’t necessarily spell “drug abuse” on their own. Let’s talk about the physical signs of drug issues.
Physical Signs of Drug Addiction
Behavioral signs on their own don’t necessarily mean much. For a clearer picture, here are some physical signs to look out for:
- Bloodshot eyes
- Constant or sporadic illness
- Shakiness
- Drowsiness
- Weight fluctuation
- Loss of appetite
- Changing skin tone
- Lack of energy or motivation
- Depression or anxiety
As you’d expect, different substances will carry different physical signs. Also, everybody’s bodies respond differently to substances.
Therefore, don’t expect your loved one to exhibit 100% of these symptoms, but if you notice a clear pattern, you may want to look into hosting an intervention.
What to Do About Your Loved One’s Drug Addiction
Finding treatment and talking to your loved one is the best thing you can do, but you have to be careful. Even the most kind-hearted person can erupt when challenged on their addiction. It’s simply the nature of the disease.
Find treatment ahead of time and choose a time when your loved one is sober. Sit them down and explain why they should consider treatment, and do your best to avoid judgment. Don’t invite anyone to this intervention who may cause unnecessary tension, regardless of how they may feel about it.
Once you have treatment options available, have a backup just in case. If they refuse to seek treatment, don’t follow them or press them. You’ve planted the seed, so give them space for now and avoid making it worse.
There are many treatment options available, such as an inpatient program. With an inpatient program, your loved one can have all of the care they need, around-the-clock access, and a controlled, substance-free environment. From there, they can focus on rebuilding their lives sober.
If inpatient isn’t an option, Excel Treatment Center offers a wide variety of treatment programs. Take a look at what we have to offer, or call us for more information.
Choose the Right Treatment Today
Now that you know the most common signs of drug addiction, keep an eye on your loved one. The clock is ticking, and the sooner they get treatment, the better. If you believe they are abusing drugs, intervene as soon as possible, and make sure you have the treatment plan they need.
Keep reading our blog for our latest recovery tips, and contact us with any questions or for help finding a program to help your loved one.
