Have you noticed signs of addiction in a loved one? If so, getting help for someone you care about can be challenging, especially if you aren’t entirely sure that the source of their behavioral or physical changes is due to addiction or alcohol abuse. You need to be sure that you are reading the signs correctly before you proceed with getting them help.
For most people, the signs of addiction will be quite noticeable, especially as their addiction progresses. Small changes that may not have seemed significant at first may begin to progressively get worse or become more noticeable. Recognizing the signs of addiction and acting quickly to get help for someone you care about is essential.
Here are some physical, behavioral, and mental signs of addiction in a loved one that you should keep an eye out for.
9 Signs of Addiction in a Loved One’s Behavior
Let’s take a closer look.
1. Change in Routine
Depending on how your loved one usually behaves, you may immediately notice any changes to their normal routine. Addiction slowly begins to unravel a person’s life, making it almost impossible for them to maintain their usual routines.
You may notice that your loved one has changed their sleep pattern and most likely isn’t getting enough rest on a regular basis. They may also be struggling to maintain their normal habits, such as going to the grocery store every week or maintaining communication with their loved ones.
Keep in mind that this is very different depending on the individual and how they usually behave. Some people are naturally less structured, which can make changes in routine quite normal for them.
2. Unhealthy Behaviors Due to Substance Use Disorder
One of the first signs of addiction in a loved one you will most likely notice is changes in their behavior. Different types of addiction will create different behavioral changes, whether it is something like alcohol, drugs, or pills.
You may notice that your loved one has started acting the opposite of how they would normally act, such as a normally extroverted person becoming more introverted. Or, they may be experiencing frequent and sudden mood swings (intense irritability, etc) that could result in them being very emotional one minute and very angry the next.
Behavioral changes are particularly pronounced in those using illicit drugs.
3. Secretive Behavior
Another aspect of behavioral changes is if your loved one has started to show alarming psychological changes, such as becoming secretive, paranoid, or evasive. These are serious psychological signs of addiction that shouldn’t be ignored.
Individuals struggling with addiction may begin keeping secrets about their activities, hiding their drug use from family members and friends. They might also become evasive or defensive when questioned about their behavior. This secretive behavior often stems from feelings of guilt, shame, or fear of being discovered.
4. Lack of Personal Hygiene
If your loved one is experiencing addiction, one aspect of their life that will most likely begin to suffer is personal hygiene. Someone who is dealing with addiction will most likely struggle to maintain everyday tasks.
For example, you may notice that your loved one isn’t showering every day or isn’t keeping up with their normal hygiene routine, such as shaving, trimming their fingernails, or brushing their teeth. They may also look disheveled and aren’t keeping up with their laundry (i.e., wearing visibly dirty clothing).
Neglecting personal hygiene to this degree can be a serious sign of illegal substance use.
5. Changes in Physical and Mental Health
Addiction, no matter the type, can have a significant impact on a person’s physical health. Commonly used addictive substances, such as alcohol and drugs, can have a significant impact on the body, creating a variety of health issues.
Here are some examples of physical changes you may notice in somebody who is struggling with addiction:
- Unusual cuts and bruises
- Dilated pupils or red eyes
- Unexplained weight loss
- Rapid weight gain
- Loss of coordination
- Reduced energy
- Shakiness or dizziness
It is also important to keep in mind that the type of addiction will significantly impact the physical symptoms. For example, alcoholism can cause slurred speech, poor coordination, and stomach problems. On the other hand, someone who is abusing drugs may have bloodshot eyes, a runny nose, and body tremors.
6. Social Withdrawal
Individuals struggling with addiction may become increasingly isolated, withdrawing from social activities and relationships. They might disconnect from friends and family, preferring to spend time alone or with others who share their addiction.
This social withdrawal can also be a sign of underlying mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Recognizing social withdrawal as a symptom of addiction is essential to finding treatment for co-occurring addiction disorders.
7. Loss of Interest
There are many relational and lifestyle changes someone will present when they are struggling with addiction. A very common example of this that most people will start to have is a loss of interest in things that they would normally enjoy. Loss of interest can be a sign of addiction to other drugs as well.
When someone is battling addiction, their priorities shift, and they no longer value the same things that they used to value. Because of this, they will often lose interest in relationships, careers, and activities that they would usually have enjoyed. This can result in them becoming isolated and having a difficult time maintaining their normal relationships with friends and loved ones.
8. Inability to Manage Responsibilities
A sign of addiction to look out for is if your loved one is struggling to maintain their normal everyday responsibilities. Depending on the individual, they may be skipping school or falling behind in their classes. If they have a job, they may be missing work or coming in late. Struggling to manage responsibilities can be a sign of substance use disorder.
This will also impact their smaller responsibilities that they would have normally been able to manage. This includes things like finishing tasks they have started, maintaining their home, meeting work deadlines, and keeping dates or appointments.
9. Memory Gaps
Most types of addiction result in neurological symptoms, such as memory loss. While some memory issues can be normal, you may notice a significant decline in your loved one’s ability to remember things if they are dealing with addiction.
Substance abuse can cause blackouts, resulting in significant memory gaps that can span hours or entire days. Your loved one may also be struggling with short-term memory, which can result in them forgetting conversations or appointments. They may even struggle to converse with others if they can’t remember certain words or maintain concentration on the topic. Memory gaps can also be a result of withdrawal symptoms.
How to Help With Addiction in a Loved One
If you think or know that the signs of addiction are present in a family member or loved one, you will need to move quickly to secure adequate treatment. This will be vital on their journey to recovery.
Here are three best practices to keep in mind:
Recognizing the Problem
Recognizing the problem of alcohol and drug addiction is the first step toward recovery. It’s essential to understand that drug addiction is a treatable condition and requires professional help.
Family members play a crucial role in identifying the signs of addiction and encouraging the individual to seek help. If you suspect that a loved one is struggling with drug addiction, approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Your support can make a significant difference in their journey toward recovery.
Seeking Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment
Drug addiction and mental health are closely intertwined. Individuals struggling with addiction often experience mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. Conversely, those with mental health issues may be more susceptible to drug addiction.
Recognizing the connection between drug addiction and mental health is vital. A comprehensive treatment plan that includes therapy, counseling, and medication can address both issues effectively.
If you suspect that a loved one is dealing with a drug problem and mental health issues, encourage them to seek professional help. Addressing both aspects with dual diagnosis is crucial for their overall well-being and successful recovery.
Educating Yourself on Best Recovery Practices
A better understanding of what your loved one is going through can help you support their journey into health and sobriety.
Doing this may require you to learn about topics such as:
- How substance use affects brain chemistry
- How to deal with personality changes
- How to avoid risk factors and enabling behaviors
- Helping loved ones get out of dangerous situations
- Enabling loved ones to find treatment and support
Help Your Loved One Start Their Recovery Journey at My Time Recovery
Recognizing the signs of a loved one’s addiction can be challenging if you don’t know what to look for. However, recognizing these signs and acting accordingly is critical for getting your loved one the help that they need as soon as possible.
By noticing any changes in your loved one, you can encourage them to get the addiction recovery help that they need. Few people will take this step on their own, which is why it is so beneficial when loved ones are the first to bring them up in conversation.
Contact My Time Recovery today to learn more about recognizing the signs of addiction and the resources your loved ones can use to begin their recovery journey.
