Addiction Recovery Basics

by Bill Urell
Do you suspect that you might be seeing the signs and symptoms of drug addiction or alcohol abuse in the person next to you? Are you worried about a loved one's behavior or habits? There are many things that, on their own, might be quite innocent, but when seen together in stark black and white may point to a problem with drug use.

Does your loved one seem listless and apathetic? Do things that once excited him now bore him? If a person is on opioids, there is a good chance that the drug is creating this behavior. This is especially an alarming issue if you find that the change has happened suddenly. While a tapering off of interest over time is one thing, a sudden drop of things that were previously important is cause for concern.

Lying and deceptive behavior are other signs of drug or alcohol abuse might be an issue. Whether your loved one is a child, a teenager or an adult, if you've noticed strange negative behavior, it might be time for you to consider the cause. If your loved one has had no history of lying, but has all of a sudden begun to concoct detailed stories or be evasive, it you need to consider why. A lack of concern about the future and verbal or even physical abuse might be an indication of drug abuse.

Lack of concern about pain is another thing that should put you on the look out. A dulled resistance to pain is a symptom of some forms of drug abuse and if you notice this, you should confront your loved one immediately.

In terms of physical symptoms, there are a wide variety, each dependent on what your loved one might be taking. Look for red or eyes, slurred speech, a sudden loss of weight, skin sores or abrasions. Chemical breath is also an indication of something being wrong.

Similarly, look for habits that might be a sign of drug purchase. Have valuables been disappearing? Is your loved constantly using eye wash to hide his or her red eyes? You also might see drug paraphernalia around the house, or empty bottles.

If you suspect that your loved one might be abusing drugs or alcohol, have a discussion with them about it as soon as possible. Express your concern and be very caring; if done too aggressively, a confrontation will convince your loved one that he is under attack. Be attentive and speak to your loved one about the issue calmly and compassionately. Recovery from drug addiction is completely possible and remember to assure your loved one that he will not be going through it alone.

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