These days, substance abuse is a serious concern. The effects of this mental health issue run far and wide, and with nearly 90 Americans dying from overdoses each day, it’s hard to find someone who had not been affected by this problem. If you believe a family member or loved one is struggling with substance abuse, knowing how to spot the warning signs is the first step to helping them get clean.

4 Signs Your Loved One Is Struggling With Substance Abuse

1. Marked Changes in Behavior

Sometimes, friends and family suspect their loved one is struggling with substance abuse when their moods and behavior begin to change. Your loved one may seem unusually irritable, have trouble maintaining conversations, or lack motivation altogether. These changes in behavior typically happen rapidly and without any obvious triggers.

2. Unhealthy Physical Appearance

Drug and alcohol use can drastically alter a person’s physical appearance. Very often, people who are abusing these substances will lose a substantial amount of weight in a short period, their eyes may appear bloodshot, and they may have visible shakes and tremors. You should also look for excessive sweating, bloody noses, and rapid deterioration of their oral health.

3. Inability to Maintain Commitments

As your loved one’s addiction grows, it will begin to consume various aspects of their everyday life and take priority over once-valued commitments and relationships. They may begin to skip out on appointments, dates, and family gatherings. In more serious cases, a person struggling with substance abuse may drop out of school, quit their job, or leave a relationship that was otherwise healthy.

4. Frequent Financial Troubles

Financial troubles alone are not a sign of substance abuse or addiction. However, when a loved one exhibits any of the signs listed above and consistently needs money despite working a job, their money could be going to an unsavory source.

If your loved one is exhibiting one or more of the signs listed above, they may have a substance abuse problem. For help addressing this issue, contact Wiregrass Wellness Center. Located in Dothan, AL, they offer mental health counseling for a variety of psychological issues, including addiction, depression, and anxiety. To learn how they can help you, visit their website or call (334) 673-8869 today to speak with an expert who can offer guidance.