Symptoms and warning signs of addiction include dilated or constricted pupils, problems sleeping or sleeping too much, changes in personality, depression, and lack of motivation; appearing tired or “spaced out.” If you suspect a loved one is struggling with addiction, here are a few things you can do: speak up, take care of yourself, and avoid self-blame. Speak up and tell the person about your concerns, the earlier the better. Don’t wait until that person hits the bottom. Be prepared to hear excuses your loved ones have prepared for their behavior. Take care of yourself by not getting too caught up in someone else’s drug problem, don’t neglect your own needs and put yourself into dangerous situations. Also, avoid self-blame, you can support the person and offer encouragement, but you can’t force an addict to change so abruptly. Let the person accept responsibility for their own actions. Don’t attempt to punish, threaten, bribe, or preach. Avoid hiding or throwing away drugs. Please contact 1-800-GET-HELP to receive additional aid.
