Friday, 02 June 2017 07:54

Five Signs You or a Loved One is Suffering from Substance Abuse

signs of substance abuse

It is likely someone you know shows signs of substance abuse. 21.5 million Americans, or one out of every 12 adults suffers from a substance abuse disorder (SUD). A psychological and neurological issue, It is important to be able to recognize the signs you or someone you love needs help to breakthrough in their battle against drug or alcohol abuse.

This article is not an exhaustive list, but below are # of # signs you or your loved one is suffering from substance abuse. We will provide the second half of this list in a future post:

 

Substance Abuse Sign 1: Misusing Drug Prescriptions

If your loved one is misusing prescription drugs, it is a key sign of a potential substance abuse issue. Prescription drug misuse may include any of the following:

  • Taking more than the prescribed dosage
  • Purposely taking two or more prescriptions that are not appropriate to use together
  • Losing the intended effect of the medicine
  • Using the drugs beyond what is necessary
  • Shorter periods between refills
  • Experiencing withdrawal
  • Purchasing other people’s prescriptions
  • Taking unnecessary medicines

 Substance Abuse Sign 2: Unwillingness to Share Personal Details with Others

An unwillingness to share personal details such as current prescriptions, hobbies and habits, travel itineraries, etc., could be a sign a person is attempting to conceal a substance abuse issue. If you are hiding prescriptions or not telling the truth about alcohol, tobacco, or drug use from your doctors or friends, you should examine whether you are suffering from an SUD.

signs my loved one has substance abuse disorder asheville nc

3) Substance Abuse Sign 3: Sudden Change in Behavior

If your loved one is displaying sudden changes in behavior, it could be indicative of a substance abuse issue. Usual behavior may include:

  • Staying out later than usual
  • Refusal to leave home
  • Venturing to strange places
  • Alterations in mood
  • Failure to keep appointments
  • Difficulty maintaining relationships

4) Substance Abuse Sign 4: Changes in Sleep Patterns

If you are having trouble falling asleep, waking up, insomnia, sleep apnea, or other changes in sleep patterns, it may indicate that you are suffering from an SUD. If you wake up to the feeling that you need a particular substance to feel better, or to sleep, you should consider seeking help from a medical professional.

5) Substance Abuse Sign 5: Financial Trouble

If your loved one is suddenly experiencing financial trouble, or displaying erratic spending behaviors, it may be a sign of substance addiction. If you would rather spend your money on drugs and alcohol, even if it means forfeiting your ability to pay for necessities, it is time to seek professional help. Our practice has seen significant success helping people beat substance abuse disorders through neurofeedback therapies. 

 

 

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