Addiction is more common than you might expect. Millions of people in the United States struggle with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, but many don’t get the help they need. Learning to recognize the signs of addiction can make it easier for you to assist loved ones or yourself. These common signs of addiction point to a problem that needs immediate medical support and treatment.
Rapid Mood Swings
Many addictive substances can create rapid mood swings. If a person you love is using stimulant drugs like cocaine or meth, they might experience bouts of hyperactivity and confidence. Then, a few hours later, they might seem apathetic and lethargic.
An addiction to alcohol can do the same thing. When a person first starts drinking, he or she might seem happy and upbeat. After a few hours of drinking, that personality changes. The next day, before the drinking begins again, that same person can be angry and grumpy.
Problems With Sleep
Another one of the most common signs of addiction is sleep-related problems. Many addictive substances can significantly change the way that your body rests, and it is something that people may be able to notice right away.
Stimulant users, for example, may not sleep for extended periods of time. When they do sleep, however, they might do so for far longer than usual. Opioid users are often drowsy and can fall asleep seemingly out of nowhere, but they may never feel really rested.
Serious Changes to Routine
Once a person is addicted to drugs or alcohol, it becomes almost impossible to focus on the other essential things in life. Everything will become secondary compared to the need to use their preferred substance. That’s why addiction can bring about serious changes to a person’s routine.
Many people who struggle with addiction are not able to hold down a full-time job. Others are routinely late, or they often miss appointments and scheduled events.
Changes to Physical Appearance
Whether a person is struggling with a heroin addiction or marijuana addiction, that addiction can lead to physical changes. On the surface, your loved one might look different because of changes to hygiene and grooming. Individuals might not iron their clothes, do their hair or shave their beard like they once used to.
Some people also gain or lose weight rapidly. Certain substances can impact metabolism as well as appetite, leading to drastic physical changes that will be obvious to close friends and family members.
Responding to the Signs of Addiction
If you spot these signs of addiction in a loved one, then act quickly to get them the help they need. Addiction recovery begins with detox, so Serenity House Detox is the ideal place to start. Clients can expect all of the following:
- 24/7 medical support and monitoring
- Addiction therapy services
- Group therapy program
- Comfortable accommodation
- Planning for relapse prevention and long-term sobriety
These telltale signs of addiction are one way to spot a serious problem. Detoxification at Serenity House Detox in Houston, Texas, may be the right way to begin the journey to recovery. Call 866.516.8356 to break free from addiction once and for all.
