Signs of Addiction: 10 Common Signs of Drug or Alcohol Addiction
No parent wants to think that their child has a problem with addiction, but it’s important to know the signs to help your son get the help he needs. There are ten signs of addiction that you may notice if your child struggles with substance abuse. It’s important to recognize these signs as soon as possible so you can help your child get the help he needs.
Signs of Addiction
The signs of drug addiction and signs of alcohol addiction vary from person to person, but there are a few common signs that parents can recognize. Children may try to hide these signs, so it’s important that you look for the more subtle signs.
1. Gain/Loss of appetite.
Some drugs can make you more or less hungry, which can lead to drastic changes in weight. This is one of the signs of drug addiction that may be most apparent, so keep an eye on your son’s diet and exercise to see if his weight loss or gain matches his habits. If not, it may be due to addiction.
2. Loss of interest in things they use to enjoy.
Lethargy and apathy in daily activities that use to excite may be a sign that something else has taken it’s place. One of the signs of alcohol addiction is foregoing pleasurable activities in favor of alcohol.
3. Changes in sleep patterns.
Are they sleeping for much longer periods of time, or staying up all night? Unusual sleep patterns could be a sign of drug addiction.
4. Being secretive and isolating.
Is your son hiding things from you? Not wanting to talk and hiding in his room, being secretive and lying could be signs of drug addiction.
5. Stealing.
Are you finding your prescription pills missing on multiple occasions? Missing valuables around the house or money from your purse or wallet could also be used to pay for drugs or alcohol. This is one of the crucial signs of alcohol addiction.
6. Trouble at school or with the law.
Has your child been suspended from school or been arrested for underage drinking, or possession of drug paraphernalia? Acting out and mood swings are also a common sign of drug and alcohol abuse.
7. Slurred speech or delayed reaction time.
Unable to communicate or involuntary bodily movements may be a sign that drug and alcohol abuse is taking place.
8. Unexplained injuries.
Some drugs cause people to itch or pick at their face and skin. Some injuries may have occurred while in a drug or alcohol induced fog. Frequent nose bleeds could be from snorting cocaine or pills, and pin marks on their arms could be the result of needle use.
9. Memory Loss
If your son is having difficulty remembering basic things, or forgets things that have recently happened, it could be a result of drug or alcohol use.
10. Change of friends.
Has your son abandoned childhood friends for a group who tends to get into trouble, it could be related to drug and alcohol use.
Treating Your Child’s Addiction at The Last Resort
It is important to keep an open line of communication with your child, and to ask them if they feel that they may have a problem with drugs and alcohol. If you notice any of these signs of addiction, then it’s time to get help from the Last Resort Recovery. We offer substance abuse treatment for men with addiction in college, including programs such as:
If you suspect your son may be suffering from addiction, call (512) 750-6750 or contact us here to talk to someone who can help. Don’t let substance abuse claim the life of someone you love. Recognize the signs of addiction and find help now.