How do you recognise addiction in a loved one?

How do you recognise addiction in a loved one? 8 Mar 2024 | 2 min read | Updated 29 Apr 2024 It can be difficult to acknowledge that a loved one is struggling with addiction. The signs are sometimes subtle and easy for outsiders to overlook, but as someone close to them, you may have had a gut feeling for some time. Trust that gut feeling, because I always say: If it walks like a duck and talks like a duck, it probably is a duck. Recognising the signs of addiction is a crucial first step towards offering help and support. In this blog, we discuss five key characteristics that may indicate that someone close to you is suffering from addiction. 1. Behavioural changes One of the most obvious signs of addiction in a loved one is sudden and noticeable behavioural changes. These may range from mood swings to unpredictable behaviour. You may notice that someone withdraws from activities they previously enjoyed or begins displaying more risky behaviour. They may also become secretive or defensive as soon as you ask questions about their behaviour. 2. Physical changes In addition to behavioural changes, physical changes can also be signs of an addiction problem. These may include weight loss or gain, bloodshot eyes, trembling hands or a neglected appearance. Pay attention to whether these changes develop gradually or suddenly become visible alongside other signs. 3. Isolation People with addiction may tend to withdraw from social activities and isolate themselves from friends and family. They may avoid gatherings in which they previously participated actively or, conversely, frequently stay away from home. This isolation may serve to conceal the addiction, but it can also be a symptom of the emotional toll that addiction takes. 4. Unreliability Another characteristic of addiction is that someone often becomes unreliable. Promises are broken, appointments are missed and their words lose their value. This can lead to conflict and harm, both personally and professionally. If you begin asking questions, they respond with long, complicated answers. 5. Financial problems Addiction can cause significant financial problems for both the person and their loved ones. Someone may borrow or steal money to fund the addiction, regularly spend money on addictive substances or activities, or even lose their job as a result of the addiction. Financial problems can be a strong indicator of a deeper underlying issue. Recognising signs of addiction in a loved one and then taking action can be difficult and painful, but it is an important first step towards help and recovery. By remaining alert to behavioural changes, physical changes, isolation, unreliability and financial problems, you may be able to intervene before the situation escalates further.