How To Help A Friend With An Alcohol/Drug Addiction

Physical Danger Signs of a Potential Addiction Problem

People who have an alcohol abuse problem show many physical signs of addiction. Know the signs by reading below: 

 

- Eyes that are bloodshot or pupils that are smaller or larger than normal.

- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns.  Sudden weight loss or weight gain.

- Deterioration in personal grooming or physical appearance. 

- Impaired coordination, injuries/accidents/bruises that they won’t or can’t tell you about

- Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing.

- Shakes, tremors, incoherent or slurred speech, impaired or unstable coordination.

 

For more information on danger signs of a potential addiction problem in a friend click here to visit NCADD website 

Behavioral Signs of a Potential Addiction Problem

People who have an alcohol abuse problem show many behavioral signs of addiction. Know the signs by reading below: 

 

- Drop in attendance and performance at school or work

- Complaints from co-workers, supervisors, teachers or classmates.

- Missing money, valuables, prescription or prescription drugs, borrowing and stealing money.

- Acting isolated, silent, withdrawn, engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors.

- Clashes with family values and beliefs.

- Preoccupation with alcohol and drug-related lifestyle in music, clothing and posters.

- Demanding more privacy, locking doors and avoiding eye contact.

- Sudden change in relationships, friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies.

- Frequently getting into trouble (arguments, fights, accidents, illegal activities)

 

For more information on danger signs of a potential addiction problem in a friend click here to visit NCADD website 

 

Psychological Signs of a Potential Addiction Problem

People who have an alcohol abuse problem show many psychological signs of addiction. Know the signs by reading below: 

 

- Unexplained, confusing change in personality and/or attitude.

- Sudden mood changes, irritability, angry outbursts or laughing at nothing.

- Periods of unusual hyperactivity or agitation.

- Lack of motivation; inability to focus, appears lethargic or “spaced out.”

- Appears fearful, withdrawn, anxious, or paranoid, with no apparent reason.

 

For more information on danger signs of a potential addiction problem in a friend click here to visit NCADD website 

How to Help Your Friend

If you suspect your friend has a problem with alcohol abuse it is important to get them the proper help that they need. Learn about the steps to help by reading below: 

- Learn all you can about alcoholism. 

- Speak up to your friend and offer support.

- Express love and concern. Don't let your friend hit rock bottom before you express concern about their behavior. 

- Don't Expect the person to stop without help.

- Support Recovery as an ongoing process. 

To read more about helping a friend with an alcohol addiction click here