Seeing The Signs Of Substance Use: When Does It Actually Become Abuse?
Substance use is a continuing problem through the world and the United States. In 2017 alone, close to 19.7 million adults were going through a substance use disorder. It is likely that the number is even higher now due to the pandemic and world events.
With such a startling statistic, it may be likely that someone you know is secretly battling an addiction to a substance use. The effects of a substance use disorder can be devasting on the person using as well as the people closest to them. They say that addiction is a family disease and it truly is because it can affect so many.
It's important to know the signs and symptoms of substance use to know when it can become more of a problem.
Signs & Symptoms of Substance Use
There are many signs of substance use. Not all of them are as obvious as someone might believe. Education into the signs and symptoms of substance abuse, because of this, is really important. It can have effects on someone's behavior and mental health as well as their social life.
Physical Signs Of Substance Use
Constantly being sleep deprived
Impaired motor function or skills
Changes in appetite that cause sudden weight loss or gain
Bloodshot eyes
Changes in the size of the eye pupil
Slurred speech
Decline in physical appearance
Behavioral And Mental Signs Of Substance Use
Acting overly paranoid or anxious
Being secretive all the time
Being argumentative with everyone (friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, etc.)
Constant tension and conflict in relationships
Not keeping up with taking care of oneself
Loss of interest in activities or hobbies
Acting "spaced out"
Needing money all the time and asking for it from loved ones
Risky behaviors such as hanging out with the wrong people
Social isolation
Mood swings
When Does Substance Use Become Abuse?
It isn't always as obvious as people may think on when the turning point is. After all, with most substance use disorders, it is likely staying a secret or under wraps before it completely gets out of control and can no longer be hidden. Which makes recognizing the signs and symptoms of substance use all the more important. But also tricky, because a lot of the symptoms of it can be attributed to other things going on in a person's life.
Typically, though, substance use turns into abuse in one main way.
The substances are used regularly to the level of excess. Issues will occur as a direct result of the usage; however, the individual continues to overindulge. Many clients will see us for therapy when there is some form abuse. Therapy with a Certified Addictions Counselor can be very valuable at this stage. Some individuals at this stage, may want to better control or minimize their substance use and therapy with new behavioral techniques can limit poor judgment and other maladaptive patterns. For some, the usage becomes so out of control. When can they get their next fix? How often can they turn to the substance of choice? Withdrawal symptoms can occur. If it's with legal or recreational/legal drugs, does it seem as if they can't function without it? If they drink, it could be that you notice that they can't be at any event or social event without it. A substance “dependency” can take place.
How To Help Someone With A Suspected Substance Use Problem
It's normal to feel helpless when you feel as if someone is struggling with substance abuse. You want to be able to help them, but you honestly don't even know where to start. It's a tricky subject matter that a lot of people, understandably, don't know how to approach.
First, education about substance use is really important. There's a lot of information out there that is wrong or not grounded in facts. Second, know how to delicately approach the subject matter. If you feel as if someone has an addiction, don't just spring the conversation on them. Do it in a time and place where an open conversation can happen. And don't become frustrated or surprised if they deny it.
Addiction is hard to deal with and it's important to never try and tackle the problem on your own. There are many reasons why someone may be turning to substances. At Recovery Collective, we are dedicated group of professionals with decades of experience in addiction counseling that helps people be educated on substance as well as helping them and their loved ones through it. Contact us today to find out more,