Recognizing the warning signs of addiction is not always an easy task as the very nature of this disease causes a person to mask or hide the problem. Some addicts are so adept at concealing an addiction problem that it can go on for years without even close family members discovering the issue. However, the longer an addiction persists, the harder it will be stop using and get help. That's why it is essential to recognize and identify the warning signs of addiction if you suspect someone you love might have a problem with drugs or alcohol.
The physical signs of drug use are often the easiest to notice – but beware –some signs of addiction can appear similar to other diseases or conditions, including some psychological and emotional disorders such as bipolar disorder or chronic panic disorder. (However, it should be noted that conditions such as these often co-occur along with addiction or alcoholism.) These physical signs can include:
*Tooth decay, bad breath and "mouth rot" that occur rapidly over a short period of time. This could be indicative of serious drug use like meth, cocaine and heroin
*Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
*Glossy, bloodshot or glazed eyes; or eyes that seem to dart and shift nervously
*Open sores, bruises, cuts or track marks that could indicate the use of needles
*Burn marks – often caused by hot pipes or ashes
*Poor hygiene
*Burst blood vessels in the face
*General malaise
Other physical signs could also include body changes related to a drug-user lifestyle, such as tattoos, piercings or scarring. Sometimes, these physical signs could be as simple as a change in the style of dress, hair, or clothing.
While physical warning signs of addiction may not always be present or easily noticeable, the emotional signs often are. Regular drug use often causes or exacerbates existing emotional issues such as anxiety , panic, paranoia, nervousness, and sleep and memory issues. While these emotional warning signs can sometimes be hard to define, they are almost always accompanied by the three behavioral warning signs of addiction:
1.) Loss of control over the drug or alcohol as evidenced by an inability to regulate drug intake or remember how much or when they last used a drug, and symptomatic drugs use issues including overdoses and cases of alcohol poisoning.
2.) Obsession over the drug as indicated by a person's constant references to drug use and the planning of what to use, how much to use, where and with whom.
3.) The most telling sign of addiction is the continuation of the behavior despite serious consequences, including the destruction of family and relationships, career, economic standing and even legal troubles.
If you recognize these warning signs of addiction in someone you care about, you can start the process to get them help right now. There are a number of successful options available, including interventions, inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment. However, nothing will ever happen if you don't take action right now.
Get a free, confidential consultation right now with an expert from our Florida Drug Rehab . We can help no matter where you are.
To check your insurance , read articles, request a call back or email or learn about addiction treatment options available to you right now, please visit our website:
Jarvey is a lifelong journalist and professional writer who specializes in the fields of drug abuse, addiciton and alcoholism.