Addiction is a serious problem that can devastate individuals, families, and communities. According to a National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 19.7 million American adults battled a substance abuse disorder. You might be concerned if you or someone you know is suffering from addiction. It can be challenging to identify addiction in its early stages, but there are some warning signs that can help you recognize if someone is struggling with an addiction. In this blog post, we’ll discuss five warning signs of addiction and how to get help.
1. Changes in Behavior
One of the most common warning signs of addiction is changes in behavior. If someone has suddenly become withdrawn or secretive, or if they’re exhibiting behaviors that are out of character for them, it could be a sign that they’re struggling with an addiction. Other changes in behavior may include mood swings, irritability, or aggression.
2. Financial Struggles
Another warning sign of addiction is financial struggles. If someone suddenly starts having trouble paying bills or affording necessities, it could signify that they’re spending money on drugs or alcohol instead. Additionally, if someone has been borrowing money from friends and family without being able to pay it back, this could also be a sign of an addiction problem.
3. Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms can also be a sign of an addiction problem. For example, if someone is exhibiting signs such as red eyes, weight loss or gain, poor hygiene, or changes in sleeping patterns, these could all be indicators that they’re struggling with an addiction. In some cases, if someone is exhibiting signs of withdrawal when they try to quit using drugs or alcohol (such as nausea, sweating, and shaking), this could also be a sign of an addiction problem.
4. Relationship Problems
Relationship problems can also be a warning sign of an addiction. If someone has been neglecting their relationships with friends and family members in favor of using drugs or alcohol, this could indicate that they’re struggling with an addiction issue. At times, if someone has been engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence (such as driving while intoxicated), this could also indicate that they have an addiction issue that needs to be addressed.
5. Denial
Unfortunately, denial is another common warning sign of addiction issues. If someone refuses to acknowledge their problem and continues to use drugs or alcohol despite the negative consequences it’s causing in their life. Such as relationship problems or financial struggles; this could indicate that they have an underlying issue with substance abuse that needs to be addressed by professional help.
How to Get Help for Addiction Issues
These warning signs do not necessarily mean a person is struggling with addiction. However, suppose you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or a loved one and believe there may be an underlying issue with substance abuse present. In that case, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Getting professional help can help address the issue before it gets worse and leads to more serious consequences, such as health complications or legal matters related to the substance abuse issue at hand.
Many different treatment options are available depending on the severity and type of substance abuse issue present, such as residential treatment programs for more severe cases and outpatient programs for milder cases where individuals still need support but don’t require 24/7 care. A great place to start is by matching yourself with a professional counselor. Whether you’re looking for addiction recovery or just support as a family member of someone battling addiction, we offer a variety of one-on-one or group counseling options.
Taking action early on when you notice any potential warning signs related to substance abuse issues can make all the difference when it comes time for recovery. Don’t hesitate – reach out today!
