Using prescription medications, illegal drugs, or alcohol doesn’t necessarily mean you have an addiction. Many people who use these substances recerationally do no have any issue related to stopping usage. They are able to successfully moderate themselves and their consumption. However, those addictive substances can absolutely lead to an addiction when their use becomes habitual. Learning the signs of addiction makes it easier to spot a problem, which can lead to faster support, treatment, and recovery. With many cases of addiction the sooner a person can get into recovery the better their chances of recovery will be.
Look For Physical Signs of Addiction
Drug and alcohol addictions can cause a range of physical changes. These can include dental decay, dilated pupils, and chronically runny noses. Regardless of the substance, weight change can be a good indicator of addiction. That’s because addiction alters everything from appetite to metabolism and activity level. Other physical signs of addiction can include changes in energy levels. A user may appear either far more energetic than normal. On the opposite end of the spectrum, some substances can cause users to become lethargic or very tired.
Identify Unexplained Financial Problems
Addiction is, simply put, expensive. In addition to the cost of procuring addictive substances, income can be slashed without the ability to work. As a user falls deeper into addiction they will find themselves more and more financially strained and unable to meet their typical financial obligations. They will need more drugs to replicate the same effect. More drugs cost more money but also means a user is more likely to ignore responsibilities such as work. This leads to a vicious cycle of financial ruin.
Consider Ignored Obligations
When addiction develops, nothing else in life is as important as securing the next dose. Individuals might be absent from work, forget to attend a family function, or stop paying their mortgage. Skipping out on important life obligations and responsibilities are clear signs of addiction that should not be ignored. These often indicate a serious dilemma.
Scrutinize Scheduling Changes
One of the most common signs of addiction is abrupt scheduling changes. For example, a person that normally goes to work each day might spend more time around the house. Individuals might also stop attending social events or sleep at odd hours. That’s because most substances are either stimulants or depressants, and both can dramatically impact routine.
Recognize Legal Issues
While many signs of addiction are private, legal issues or criminal proceedings are much harder to hide. While certain crimes and legal cases have nothing to do with addiction, substance abuse can certainly be a cause. If legal issues don’t have an obvious explanation, consider whether addiction might be the culprit.
If you notice one or more of these signs of addiction in yourself or a loved one, it’s time to seek addiction treatment services. At Crest View Recovery in Asheville, North Carolina, you can start taking the first steps to recovery. Call 866.327.2505 to learn more about our substance abuse treatment programs.
