More often than not, alcohol and drug dependencies start with experimental use in social situations. For some people, the substance use then becomes more frequent. It can be used as a means to occupy one’s time, eliminate boredom, escape from reality or numb one’s pain.  As time passes, a person may feel the need to use more and more to get their desired effect, and soon a person may need the drug to simply feel “normal.”

When this happens to a loved one, we do everything we can to help. Unfortunately, our unconditional love is not enough and sometimes our efforts to "help" end up doing more harm than good in the long run.

Signs and symptoms of substance use include:

• Feeling of exhilaration and excess confidence
• Hyper alertness
• Restlessness
• Behavior changes or aggression
• Rapid or rambling speech
• Dilated pupils
• Delusions and hallucinations
• Irritability or frequent changes in mood
• Reckless behavior
• Excessive argumentativeness
• Lack of empathy for others
• Decrease sense of responsibility to others
• Increased selfishness and self-centeredness
• Hyper-focus on obtaining the drug of abuse

If your loved one comes to mind with any of the above symptoms and behaviors, it may be time to consider working with a counselor for support.

Our highly trained and compassionate counselors are experienced in working with the loved ones of an addict and can provide you with the support you need.  They can also provide you with tools and resources to help your loved one without enabling, to set boundaries, and to take care of your own mental and physical well-being. Please reach out today for more information or for a free phone consultation with one of our counselors.