Addiction has impacted the lives of over 21 million Americans, making it more influential than many diseases, including cancer. Because 1 in 7 Americans will experience addiction, there are difficult moments where we evaluate ourselves and our loved ones while under the influence. Alcohol, drugs, and even food are sources of addiction, and a lack of control in any category can lead to concern from a friend, loved one, or spouse.
If you fear that your spouse is struggling with substance abuse or is addicted in any way, here are 4 signs you may be correct.
Be sure to consult with a doctor or professional
before confronting your spouse or beginning addiction treatment.
1. Addiction Symptoms
First and foremost, the signs of addiction are a major warning flag. According to American Addiction Centers, the first signs of substance abuse are serious, and wasting any time reporting to a professional or getting help is critical. Symptoms of addiction include: inability to give up a substance, related health issues such as lung cancer for smokers or liver disease for alcohol use, overly large doses of a substance, or dependence on a substance during difficult times. In addition, physical signs like loss of appetite, weight loss or gain, or withdrawal symptoms are also cause for concern. If you spot or are suspicious of these effects, don’t delay in asking how to help your husband quit smoking.
2. Missing Events
In addition to obvious signs of addiction, there are subtle signs that are easy to miss in the bustle of day-to-day life. For example, if a spouse begins to miss dinner, sporting events, or any fun outing in order to use a substance, they may be addicted. Especially if the event was previously important to them. If missing events becomes a regular occurrence, it may be time to sit your spouse down to talk about your concerns. Substance abuse is always an issue, but it becomes even more pressing when it affects everyday life and routines.
3. Impacting Personality
Personality may also be affected by substance abuse. For example, Heroin addiction can cause a dramatic shift in personality. Heroin users become depressed, euphoric, and hostile in a short period of time. Users may become anxious and disoriented, forgetting what they were doing or who they were with during substance use. If you notice any shift in your spouse’s actions or demeanor after they use a substance for a long period of time, it may be time to act on your suspicions. A change in your spouse’s personality can be jarring, but remember that the right program can help them get back to their normal self.
4. Impacting Work
In addition to family life and physical health, your spouse’s profession can also take a hit in productivity due to substance abuse. If you notice that your spouse goes to work late, receives complaints, or even gets demoted due to a lack of productivity, they may have a problem. Much like missing events or a change in personality, substance use is most detrimental when it begins to detract from everyday life. Professional work is impossible while under the influence, so recovering from addiction is critical to work-life success. Much like missing events or a change in personality, substance use is most detrimental when it begins to detract from everyday life.
Getting Help
Even if you find reasonable suspicion that your spouse is dealing with addiction, don’t be afraid of confronting them and finding help. Accepting that the issue exists is the first step to recovery, and you and your spouse will be much healthier and happier after than before. Remember that plenty of programs and professionals are available to help with the process, so you’re never alone in the journey to overcome substance abuse.
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