Warning Signs of Addiction and How To Help

Addiction is among the most difficult diseases to treat. Part of the reason for this is because in 60 to 80% of cases, mental health conditions are intertwined with the abuse of alcohol or drugs

When a loved one is struggling with addiction, it’s likely they’re also facing a mental health condition. That’s why professional support is recommended to treat the person. Going it alone – without a pro backing your efforts – can lead to failure.

Recognizing Addiction Can Lead to Help

Look for the following signs that may indicate a problem:

• Efforts to hide use of alcohol or drugs
• Inability to limit the amount of use
• Grows angry or disagreeable when not using
• Personality changes or behavior modifications, like working less, sleeping more
• Withdraws to be alone and denies there’s any problem

Much like any other illness, no two patients are the same. One person might have trouble remembering things. Others might have new physical or psychological problems. It’s rare all the warning signs appear together; some might show, while others do not.

Remaining Detached Without Giving Up

People with a disorder who stop drinking or using drugs may exhibit traits such as anxiety and depression, or show signs like fever, confusion or sweating as they stop using. In these cases, it can be hard for loved ones to hold back in their efforts to help.

You can help by talking to them when they are sober and expressing your worries, especially if they are impacting kids, careers and health.

Seeking a Solution

But for any addiction to end, it requires the concentrated effort of the person facing it. He or she may need professional intervention.

Many Avera recovery professionals are dual-licensed to not only treat the use of addictive substance, but to address underlying behavioral health concerns that may be aspects of the addiction. Addiction is as serious as cancer, heart disease or diabetes, but social stigma and shame can prevent both patients and families from getting that professional assessment started and beginning the process.

Learn more about help for those who face addiction and substance abuse disorders.