It is not always the obvious clue like a plastic bag containing white powder hidden in the sock drawer, or hypodermic needles stashed away behind books that will make you wonder if someone you care for is abusing drugs. Instead, they might just start behaving … well, oddly. Confused, unfocused, restless, lethargic – in short: differently. Or there might be a sudden – and mostly unfavourable – change in their appearance. Recognising the signs of addiction is the first step to seeking help, but it often necessitates certain observation skills and a basic understanding of the nature of substance use disorder (SUD).
The many faces (and moods) of addiction
The signs of drug use and addiction can vary depending on the person and the drug. Addiction may evoke many changes in an affected person: it can change the way they look, how they feel, how they act, and these changes may be readily apparent or occur gradually. Furthermore, while some aspects can be associated with addiction in general, others indicate more distinctly the abuse of certain drugs such as Marijuana, Cocaine, Meth, or alcohol.
General Signs
| Physical signs |
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| Behavioural signs |
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| Psychological signs |
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Distinct signs
| Alcohol abuse |
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| Cocaine use |
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| Opioid use |
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| Marijuana use |
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| Meth use |
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How to talk about what you found out
Whether you have concrete evidence or are increasingly concerned after observing several telltale signs – if you believe that someone you care about is struggling with addiction, it is time to get help. Early intervention can play a pivotal role in preventing the issue from escalating. «Easier said than done,» you may think. «I can’t just say ‘Listen, I know you have a problem. Do something. Go get treatment.’» No, you can’t. Here are some tips on how to proceed and address this delicate subject with the person affected:
- Time your conversation: Choose a private environment where the person feels safe and comfortable, and make sure that the person you are worried about is sober at that moment.
- Be nonjudgmental but constructive: Make sure that they know that you care for them and that you are there to help them. Avoid accusatory or judgmental tones (i. e. «Why are you doing that? It’s killing you!»). Instead, show them that you are trying to help and to convince them to seek treatment. Stay assertive and emphasize your concern (i. e. «I am worried about you.»
- Stay calm and don’t give up: Understand their situation and stay calm when they make excuses or even attack you verbally. Don’t expect too much from this first talk, and continue explaining the consequences of their substance abuse. Even if they appear to remain in denial, you have offered them a safety net and made sure that they are aware of the possibility and need for treatment.
Seek help
Recognising the signs of SUD in someone you care about is a crucial first step towards providing help and support. If you find yourself uncertain about how to navigate this challenging situation, remember that assistance is available and that reaching out for guidance can make a significant difference. Don’t hesitate to contact us: our NEOVIVA team is here to provide expert advice, support, and resources to help you address the situation effectively.
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