Posted by Substance abuse can be a difficult thing to detect. Many people try to hide their addiction from friends and family members. However, there are some warning signs that may indicate that someone is abusing drugs or alcohol.
Changes in Mood or Behavior
If you notice that your loved one is suddenly behaving differently, it could be a sign of substance abuse. Different drugs can cause different mood changes. For instance, stimulants may make a person more energetic, while sedatives may make a person feel calmer. If you notice that your loved one’s mood is changing for no apparent reason, it could be due to drug use. When it comes to drug abuse, changes in behavior are often one of the first warning signs.
For example, someone who is normally outgoing may suddenly become withdrawn. It’s also common for people who abuse drugs to start neglecting their responsibilities at work or school.
Changes in Appearance
People who abuse drugs often have changes in their physical appearance. For instance, they may lose or gain weight, have red or glassy eyes, and suffer from constant nosebleeds. Note that drug abuse can lead to poor nutrition. People who are addicted to drugs may not eat properly or get enough sleep, both of which can cause changes in appearance. Additionally, some drugs (such as methamphetamine) can cause people to pick at their skin, which can also lead to changes in appearance.
If you notice changes in your loved one’s appearance, it could be a sign that they are abusing drugs. However, you may need to look for more subtle changes in appearance, such as a change in hygiene or clothing choices. For example, someone who is normally well-groomed may start wearing wrinkled clothes and neglecting their personal hygiene. Or, someone who normally wears makeup may stop wearing it altogether.
Problems with Money
Drug abuse can be expensive, as people addicted to drugs often spend a lot of money on their habit; it’s actually not uncommon, for instance, for someone who’s addicted to heroin to spend hundreds of dollars per week on the drug. If you notice that your loved one is having financial problems, it could be due to drug abuse. Additionally, people who are addicted to drugs may start borrowing money from friends or family members. Also, when things start going missing from your home, it could be a sign that someone is stealing to support their drug habit. Additionally, if you notice that your loved one is always asking to borrow money, it could be a sign of a problem.
Changes in Sleeping Patterns
People who abuse drugs often have changes in their sleeping patterns because the drugs they’re taking can interfere with sleep. For instance, someone who’s addicted to stimulants may have difficulty falling asleep or may stay up all night. On the other hand, someone who’s addicted to sedatives may sleep for long periods of time.
In addition to changes in sleeping patterns, you may also notice that your loved one is always tired. This can be a sign of drug abuse, as many drugs (such as opiates) can cause people to feel sleepy or lethargic.
Changes in Friends
People who abuse drugs often associate with other people who abuse drugs. If you notice that your loved one is hanging out with a new group of friends, it could be a sign that they’re using drugs. Additionally, if you notice that your loved one is suddenly spending less time with family and friends, it could be because they’re using drugs. Drug users often become isolated from the people who care about them the most.
What Should You Do if You Suspect Your Loved One is Using Drugs?
If you think your loved one is abusing drugs, the best thing to do is to talk to them about it. Let them know that you’re concerned and try to get them to open up to you about what’s going on. Additionally, you can offer to help them get quality treatment for their drug abuse. An online search for “ Pearland rehab centers” or rehab centers in your area can help connect you with the help you need. Just remember that you can’t force someone to get help; they have to want it for themselves.
Conclusion
No matter how difficult it is to think that your loved one may be abusing drugs, it’s important to be on the lookout for the warning signs. Try to have an open and honest conversation with your loved one about your concerns. If they are resistant to getting help, don’t give up hope; sometimes it takes a few tries before someone is ready to get help for their drug abuse.