5 Signs Your Loved One May Be Struggling With Addiction

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 40.3 million people are living with substance use disorders in the United States. In contrast, 27.9 million people over age 12 are living with alcohol use disorder, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.

These numbers are staggering, considering one of those people could be someone you love. If you suspect a loved one of addiction, it's essential to know the signs to get them the help they need.

At the Victory Treatment Program in Knoxville, Tennessee, Stacey Maltman, FNP-BC, offers treatment for alcohol abuse and opioid addiction. She's an addiction specialist offering support groups, medication-assisted treatment, and IV therapy for her patients.

Understanding addiction

Addiction is a chronic problem that leads to impulsive substance or alcohol use, even though it causes personal problems. It's often a compulsion that leads to substance use despite knowing the negative consequences.

People dealing with addiction often struggle to stop, even though they know the consequences. Severe addiction also leads to withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit, which are uncomfortable and scary.

As addiction continues, it leads to tolerance, meaning you need more alcohol or substances to achieve the same desired effect. The results are negative and affect every aspect of someone's life.

Five prevalent signs of addiction

Many people show various signs of addiction, no matter how subtle. You may suspect your loved one has an addiction if you notice changes in their lifestyle or certain behaviors. Five telltale signs of addiction include:

1. Changes in behavior

People living with drug or alcohol addiction show changes in their demeanor or behavior. They may become more secretive or lash out more easily than usual. Addicted individuals also struggle with interpersonal relationships and may be secretive about friendships.

2. Problems with school or work

A significant sign of addiction is sudden problems with school or work. People with addiction often show up late to work or school and have a decline in their grades or work ethic. They may also show a sudden lack of interest in getting things done.

3. Physical health changes

Addiction causes various physical changes, including red or bloodshot eyes, significant weight loss, and a major lack of energy. They may also become sick more often or have open skin sores.

4. Money problems

Addiction costs money that individuals with addiction don't always have. You may notice your loved one asking for money with no explanation why, or things missing from the house that they may have sold for drug money. You may also notice that money is missing or has been stolen from you to get a fix.

5. Neglected appearance

Another sign of addiction is a neglected appearance. People battling addiction often neglect how they look, appearing unkempt with ragged clothing and poor hygiene.

What should I do next?

If you suspect a loved one is dealing with addiction, it's essential to take the proper steps to get them help. Sometimes, confronting them in a calm and caring way is the best approach to initiate the recovery process.

We offer various resources to help you and your loved one overcome addiction. We can help you get the conversation started and help your loved one realize they have a problem with drugs or alcohol.

The following steps are up to them. They have to want to get better and overcome addiction. They must understand that it's a lifelong commitment to staying sober after the initial recovery period.

Contact the Victory Treatment Program today to discuss our addiction services, or visit our website to learn more.