Alcohol and drug addiction can affect the whole family and change your family dynamics. Families affected by substance abuse/addiction can disrupt everyday life weather the person is a parent, child/teen or extended family members.
One of the most challenging aspects of addiction is that it is a progressive disease. Early warning signs can be hard to spot, and unhealthy patterns can develop into a full-blown substance use disorder (often referred to as substance abuse) if not addressed.
Behavioral signs of drug use or substance abuse include:
- Avoiding eye contact
- Ignoring or breaking curfew
- Acting irresponsibly
- Frequently asking for money
- Stealing
- Locking bedroom doors
- Making secretive calls
- Isolating from others/damaging relationships with family or friends
- Making excuses (or outright lying)
- Withdrawing from classroom participation/slipping in grades
- Resisting discipline or feedback
- Missing school or work
- Losing interest in hobbies or activities
- Abandoning long-time friends
Physical indicators of possible substance use or abuse include:
- Poor hygiene/change in appearance
- Glazed or bloodshot eyes
- Frequent runny nose or nosebleeds
- Paranoia, irritability, anxiety, fidgeting
- Changes in mood or attitude
- Difficulty staying on task/staying focused
- Small track marks on arms or legs (wears long sleeves even in warm weather)
- Pupils larger or smaller than usual
- Cold, sweaty palms or shaking hands
- Sores on mouth
- Headaches
- Puffy, swollen face
- Extremely tired or extremely hyperactive
- Rapid weight gain or loss
Support, guidance and assistance of a therapist is fundamental to be able to express and heal from substance abuse. If you or someone you know match the symptoms listed above, I am confident that I can help and invite you to contact me today for a free consultation.
(207) 318-8899
therapy@renewcounselingme.com