10 Signs Your Loved One Might be Struggling with Addiction

Those who use drugs aren't the only ones affected when it turns into addiction. Friends, family, and anyone in their life will get caught in the crossfire. Drugs can break up families and relationships, and substance abuse can completely change a person.

Whether you fear your loved one is abusing meth, Xanax, GHB, or another drug, you're probably trying to confirm your suspicions before confronting them. Substance abuse can look different from person to person, but many drugs bring out the same pattern of behaviors.. 

If you're worried someone you love has an addiction, here are some signs that can get you the answers you're looking for. If these sound familiar, it might be time to help them seek addiction treatment. 

Lost interest in hobbies and things that once brought joy

Drug addiction can lead someone who once followed their biggest passion to no longer have an interest in doing anything at all. Those who struggle with drug abuse often spend the majority of their days either high or dealing with the aftereffects of using. All of the time that gets sucked up by drugs can no longer be used for other things. 

Memory loss

If someone you love was once reliable but now fails to finish tasks and fulfill obligations, it might be time to worry. Addiction can impact cognitive functions like memory, reasoning, and learning. The impact drug use has on the brain goes beyond general flakiness. Drug use can lead to difficulty recalling past events and future plans and, in some cases, lead to blackouts. As this use continues, long-term memory may become permanent.

Sudden change in appearance or behavior

People who deal with drug addiction often go through a significant change in their mood and behavior, which those who know them well will likely notice. It's normal for people to want to alter their appearance or change in other ways as they go through life's challenges and age, so it can be difficult to tell the difference. 

You've likely already seen what drugs can do in a legal sense. Many people find prescribed medications like antidepressants, antipsychotics, or mood stabilizers to change their behavior positively. Drugs can lead to impatience and more aggressive behaviors, too. They can completely change one's sense of self. 

Stealing

If you've noticed things going missing around your home, such as costly items, this may mean your loved one is stealing from you. People with an addiction can burn through money fast, leaving them desperate to find ways to get their hands on more drugs. They may sell your valuable things to get the funds for their next round. 

Sudden change in weight 

If you've been around marijuana before or watched a comedy movie, it likely doesn't come as a surprise that some drugs increase appetite. Certain medications can make people hungry, while others work to improve the metabolism. Of course, there are plenty of other reasons why one may lose or gain weight rapidly, so don't completely rule out things like eating disorders here. If you've noticed a sudden and extreme weight change in your loved one, it's probably time to have a conversation, no matter how awkward. 

Hiding information

Those who struggle with addiction often don't want to have a difficult conversation about this. They likely won't want to own up to the fact that they're dependent on drugs, whether it's because they can't admit it or are ashamed. This need to hide the truth can lead them to keep more secrets and tell lies to cover up the reality. 

Their social circle and habits have changed.

A change in relationships and desire to socialize is one of the more common signs of addiction. While it's normal for people to switch up friends throughout their lives, this tends to go past that. It hits people differently. Some may feel more inclined to go out and party, but many will begin to distance themselves from those they were once close to. They may choose to isolate more often than usual or have trouble staying present in conversations.  

A change in sleep patterns or energy levels

Drugs can have a significant impact on a person's energy level. They can lead one down the path of depression and anxiety, leaving the user feeling more tired than usual. Other drugs may cause spurts of high energy and euphoric feelings similar to mania. You may begin to feel concerned if your loved one has way more liveliness than average or wants to stay in and sleep when they used to be more social. 

No longer fulfilling obligations and becoming flakey

Drugs impact a person's ability to make rational decisions or care about anything. This can lead people to stop completing the tasks required of them. If the person in question used to be a stand-up person and has recently begun to bail on things and skip deadlines, they may be facing addiction. 

Mood swings

Addiction can lead to a range of psychiatric disorders. There is a connection between drug abuse and mental disorders like bipolar disorder, manic depression, ADHD, and more. Beyond this, when used often, drugs can also cause mood swings. 

The LGBTQ+ community faces unique challenges when it comes to drug abuse and addiction. That's why finding a group that really gets it is helpful. Gender-affirming care can be beneficial for those who fall under the LGBTQ+ umbrella as this offers an understanding of obstacles and pressure this group faces. Pride Detox is here to help you or your loved one navigate recovery.