Addiction is a complex neuropsychological disease, and like other brain ailments it can be very challenging to diagnose. So far, there isn’t a blood test that can tell you without doubt that it’s time to put the plug in the jug. And it’s not as simple as counting up the beer cans at the end of a long weekend, either. If you think your loved one is struggling with substance use disorder, here are a few possible signs that someone needs rehab.
What Is Addiction?
Addiction is a chronic disease like diabetes or asthma, and it impacts the body, mind, and soul, on many different levels. It also is caused by a variety of factors: trauma, mental health issues, genetics, lifestyle, physiology, and more. For that reason, it can be hard to pinpoint exactly when “normal” consumption triggers a full-blown addiction. The key is to look for the impact of addiction – like searching for the smoke to find the fire.
That’s because addiction is a behavior that involves repeated consumption even when the individual experiences negative impact from their drinking or using. It is not characterized by a specific number of drinks per day or pills per week because that amount varies so widely. What unites every addict or alcoholic, however, is the fact that drugs or alcohol are ruining their lives and they keep on drinking and using. If you know that a loved one is drinking or using and you see these issues cropping up in their lives, they might be in need of residential addiction treatment.
Signs of Addiction: Behavioral
The most classic signs of addiction are behavioral changes. You already know that drinking and drug use can turn your loved one into someone you don’t recognize. Irritability, mood swings, impulsivity, outbursts, and other unusual behavior can all be signs of a substance abuse problem. When that escalates into denial, secrecy, and lying about their habit, it could be a sign that it’s time for them to get professional help for addiction.
Signs of Addiction: Physical
Addiction takes a heavy physical toll on the body. Much like the behavioral symptoms, any drastic change can be cause for concern. Weight gain or weight loss can be a sign of excessive drinking or drug use. Red eyes, track marks, facial sores or pale skin are also cause for concern. Of course, if your loved one has been told by a doctor that their drinking or drug use is hurting their liver, heart, stomach, lungs, or other major organs – and they still continue drinking or using – it’s time to get help for addiction.
Signs of Addiction: Financial
A lesser-known symptom of addiction is financial difficulties. Drugs and alcohol are expensive, so when addiction takes hold bills and rent often take a back seat. If your loved one’s bank account is constantly running dry and the calls from angry creditors are nonstop, drugs or alcohol could be behind it.
Signs of Addiction: Spiritual
Finally, addiction makes the spark in people go out. If your loved one has lost that twinkle in their eye and let go of the things they used to treasure – like church, meditation, spirituality, or time in nature – it’s time to plant the seed of a new hope for life in recovery.
Getting Help for Addiction
If you think your loved one needs help for their addiction, give our friendly team a call. We’ll listen to your situation and help you plan for the next steps for you and your loved one. The season of struggle could be over as soon as you pick up the phone.