Is My Loved One Abusing Substances?

Are you concerned that your loved one may be abusing substances? If so, you’re not alone. Substance abuse is a serious problem that affects millions of people around the world. It can cause serious health problems, ruin relationships, and even lead to death.

If you suspect that your loved one is abusing substances, there are several signs to look out for. These include changes in behavior, such as mood swings or irritability, as well as physical changes, like weight loss or changes in appearance. Your loved one may also start to withdraw from social activities or neglect their responsibilities.

If you think that your loved one is abusing substances, it’s important to approach the situation with compassion and understanding. Addiction is a disease, and it can be difficult for someone to break free from it without help.

One way to help your loved one is to encourage them to seek professional help. This could mean going to therapy, attending a support group or possibly treatment in some scenarios. It’s crucial to offer your support and be there for your loved one throughout their recovery journey.

Another way to help your loved one is to educate yourself about substance abuse. This can help you understand what your loved one is going through and how you can best support them. You can find information about substance abuse online or by talking to a healthcare professional.

In conclusion, if you suspect that your loved one is abusing substances, it’s important to approach the situation with compassion and understanding. Encourage them to seek professional help, offer your support, and educate yourself about substance abuse. By doing so, you can help your loved one on their road to recovery.

Common signs and symptoms that a loved one is abusing alcohol may include:

Being unable to limit the amount of alcohol they drink

Wanting to cut down on how much they are drinkink or making unsuccessful attempts to do so

Spending a lot of time drinking, getting alcohol or recovering from alcohol use

Feeling strong cravings or urges to drink alcohol

Failing to fulfill major obligations at work, school or home due to repeated alcohol use

Continuing to drink alcohol even though they know it’s causing physical, social, work or relationship problems

Giving up or reducing social and work activities and hobbies to use alcohol

Using alcohol in situations where it’s not safe, such as when driving or swimming

Developing a tolerance to alcohol so that they need more to feel its effect

Common signs and symptoms that a loved one is abusing substances may include:

Mood changes, including excessive swings from elation to hostility

Changes in sleep patterns

Borrowing medication from other people or “losing” medications so that more prescriptions must be written

Seeking the same prescription from multiple doctors, in order to have a “backup” supply

Poor decision-making, including putting himself or herself and others in danger

If someone you love is addicted to substances, you’re also likely to experience changes in your thoughts and behaviors. You may find yourself:

Worrying about your loved one’s drug use, ranging from persistent anxiety to full-blown fear that your loved one is going to die

Lying or making excuses for your loved one’s behavior

Withdrawing from your loved one to avoid mood swings and confrontations

Thinking about or acting on the urge to call the police when your loved one uses drugs or uses illegal means to obtain them

If you are recognizing any of these signs and symptoms that your loved one is abusing alcohol and/or substances, contact our team today at Anchored Recovery Community so that we can help you in assisting your loved one on their road to recovery.