If you have a family member who you suspect is abusing drugs or alcohol, it can be difficult to know what to do. You may feel scared, frustrated, and helpless. It’s important to remember that you are not alone. There are ways that you can help your loved one, and seeking professional help is always an option. In this blog post, we will discuss six signs that your family member may be a substance abuser.
1. A drug test
If you have a family member who is a substance abuser, one of the first signs may be that they refuse to take a drug test. This can be a sign that they are using drugs and are afraid of being caught. If your loved one refuses to take a drug test, it’s important to talk to them about your concerns. You can get a drug test kit from your local pharmacy, and many employers require drug tests as well. There are also ways you can order online and have the kit shipped to your home. Also, if your loved one is on probation or has to take regular drug tests for any reason, they may be trying to avoid a positive test. Sometimes, people will try to beat a drug test by using someone else’s urine or taking detox products. If you suspect your loved one is doing this, it’s important to talk to them about your concerns.
2. Changes in appearance
Another sign that your family member may be a substance abuser is changing in their appearance. If they are using drugs, they may have red or bloodshot eyes, and their pupils may be dilated. They may also have sudden weight loss or gain, and their skin may be unhealthy looking. If you notice any of these changes in your loved one’s appearance, it’s important to talk to them about your concerns. Some other changes in appearance include:
- Changes in sleeping patterns: If your loved one is using drugs, they may start to stay up late and sleep during the day. This can be a sign that they are using stimulants such as cocaine or methamphetamine.
- Changes in hygiene: If your loved one is using drugs, they may start to neglect their hygiene. This can be a sign that they are using drugs such as methamphetamine or heroin.
3. Changes in behavior
Another sign that your family member may be a substance abuser is changing in their behavior. If they are using drugs, they may become more withdrawn and isolate themselves from friends and family. They may also start to miss work or school, and their performance may suffer. If you notice any of these changes in your loved one’s behavior, it’s important to talk to them about your concerns. Mood swings often accompany drug use, so your loved one may also become more irritable or aggressive. There are even some drugs, such as marijuana, that can cause paranoia. If you notice any changes in your loved one’s behavior, it’s important to talk to them about your concerns, as we already mentioned.
4. Financial problems
Another sign that your family member may be a substance abuser is financial problems. If they are using drugs, they may start to spend more money than they have, and they may start to borrow money from friends or family. They may also start to sell their possessions, such as electronics or jewelry. If you notice any of these changes in your loved one’s financial situation, it’s important to talk to them about your concerns. Some other financial red flags include:
- Not being able to pay bills: If your loved one is using drugs, they may start to miss payments on their bills. This can be a sign that they are spending their money on drugs instead of paying their bills.
- Asking for money: If your loved one is using drugs, they may start to ask you for money. This can be a sign that they are spending their money on drugs and don’t have enough money to pay for their expenses.
5. Legal problems
Another sign that your family member may be a substance abuser is legal problems. If they are using drugs, they may start to get in trouble with the law. This can be a sign that they are buying or selling drugs, or that they are driving under the influence of drugs. If you notice any of these changes in your loved one’s life, it’s important to talk to them about your concerns. Some other legal red flags include that they may be at risk of being arrested. This can be a sign that they are engaging in illegal activities, such as buying or selling drugs. Also, if your loved one has a DUI or DWI, this can be a sign that they are driving under the influence of drugs. If you notice any of these changes in your loved one’s life, it’s important to talk to them about your concerns.
6. Relationship problems
Another sign that your family member may be a substance abuser is relationship problems. If they are using drugs, they may start to have problems with their friends and family. They may also start to have problems at work or school. If your loved one is using drugs, they may start to argue with their friends and family more often. This can be a sign that they are under the influence of drugs or that they are spending more time with people who use drugs. Also, isolation from friends and family can be a sign that your loved one is using drugs. If you notice any of these changes in your loved one’s relationships, it’s important to notify your family and friends about your concerns. This way, they can be there for support if your loved one decides to seek treatment for their addiction.
If you notice any of these signs in your family member, it’s important to talk to them about your concerns. Substance abuse can be a difficult topic to discuss, but it’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your loved one. If they are struggling with addiction, there are many resources and treatment options available to help them get on the road to recovery. So, don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re concerned about your loved one’s substance abuse.