Signs Your Loved One May Need Help

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Addiction is an unfortunate reality for many people, but there is hope! The first step is awareness.

The first step to recovering from anything is acknowledging the problem. Sometimes, though, people need a friend or family member to point out a problem for them to acknowledge it. If you’re unsure if your loved may need help, here are a few warning signs to watch out for.

Cravings

People who have substance addictions may experience intense urges or cravings for the substance as their addiction develops.

Physical Dependence

Dependence on drugs can develop as people grow accustomed to the presence and influence of the substance. People who are addicted to a substance and may need help show signs of feeling bad or functioning sub-optimally when the drug is no longer in the system. This may include tremors, sweating, overly distracted behavior, and even change in appearance.

Tolerance

People can build a tolerance to drugs with prolonged use. This means they need more of the substance to get the same feelings. For example, if you notice your loved one, who is already a heavy drinker, is drinking more with little to no change in behavior, their tolerance may be reaching dangerous levels.

Withdrawal Symptoms

When people attempt to stop using the drug cold-turkey or to wean themselves off of it, withdrawal symptoms may be present. Withdrawal symptoms can include panic attacks, tremors, headaches, irritability, anxiety, and nausea to name just a few.

Poor Judgement

When an individual is addicted to drugs, they may do things that are risky, dangerous, and/or out of character to get more of their chosen substance.

Drug-Seeking

Addicts will spend excessive amounts of time and energy finding and obtaining their drug of choice.

Financial Trouble

People who may need help may spend large amounts of money, drain their bank accounts, and break their budgets to obtain their substance of choice.

Neglecting Responsibilities

People may choose to use or get the drug rather than meeting personal or work obligations.

Develop Unhealthy Friendships

People who have addictions may develop friendships with people who have similar habits.

Isolation

Alternatively, addicts may withdraw and isolate themselves to hide their drug use from friends and family. Addiction is lonely. Recovery doesn’t have to be! If you or someone you know is struggling with a substance abuse problem, Awakenings is here to help. They are an intensive outpatient program that helps adults overcome addiction and substance abuse problems.