A Better Relationship for Valentine’s Day

5 Signs Your Loved One May Have A Drug Addiction

10 August 2016

Vicki Alexander

Just the thought that a loved one might have a drug addiction can be scary, but if you are concerned someone you love might, there are a few telltale signs you can look for. People with addictions behave in ways that can give them away, especially if you see several unusual behaviors occurring at once.

They Start Having Money Problems

If your loved one is constantly out of money, that could be a sign that he or she is abusing drugs. Let's face it – drugs are expensive. Those who are addicted will often sell things on online auction sites or in the classifieds to make money, or they will have a stack of unpaid bills.

Another obvious sign is constantly borrowing money from friends and family, even if they have just received money from another person. They may also forget that they borrowed the money or disappear after doing so to avoid questions about paying back the funds.

They Suddenly Seem Distant Or Unavailable For Gatherings

Suddenly, your family member may not be available for your daughter's first birthday party, or they may have to leave early from the family Christmas gathering. One sign of addiction is an unreliable nature that's also secretive. You might not get a reason as to why they can't come to the party or why they left early. They may even get defensive if you push for an answer.

Also, if they have previously been there for you to help with a problem or just to go to lunch, you may find that they are unreachable. Or they may promise to help or show up, but not show up or call to let you know. 

They Start Losing Weight Rapidly

Addiction to crack, cocaine, and other similar "uppers" can increase the metabolism, so much so that people often lose their appetite even if they are eating large amounts of fatty foods. You may see your loved one eat enough, but you may note steady, rapid weight loss.

This is a commonly overlooked sign of addiction because weight loss is often considered a good thing, but if your family member seems to be losing a lot of weight and that is combined with other signs of addiction, you might be dealing with a hidden addiction.

They Seem Sick And Tired All Of The Time

People who are addicted to drugs and/or alcohol don't feel well most of the time. They might complain of vague illnesses or feeling fatigued, especially if they are coming down from a high. They might also use these complaints to avoid work or other commitments. 

Depending on what drug they are using, you may notice an increase in certain symptoms. For example, if they are snorting cocain, they may have a constant runny nose or have an increase in nosebleeds.

They Become Secretive About Both Minor And Major Issues

You might ask a simple question about the ball game or your loved one's work day, but be greeted with a nasty response. This secrecy could indicate a possible addiction, especially if they are trying to hide it. They may also become defensive or violent when you try to push the issue, so you may want to tread lightly when doing so.

If you notice one or more of the signs above, it is a possibility that your loved one has a drug addiction. However, approaching them about the subject could have negative effects, such as denial or explosive anger. If you have concerns, you may want to contact an addiction center such as Lifeline to speak to a counselor who may be able to help you get assistance for your loved one

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