Concerned about a loved one?

A family member or friend seems “off” to you, or is exhibiting behaviors you’ve not seen before. Is he or she abusing drugs or alcohol?

Maybe…maybe not. But there is a reason for this change in behavior, and it’s important to look for an explanation.

If your friend or loved one is exhibiting some of these symptoms, it could  be a sign of alcohol or drug abuse:

Physical Symptoms

• Tremors in hands; cold, sweaty palms
• Face seems pale, red or puffy
• Bloodshot or watery eyes; pupils look different (larger or smaller); staring into space
• Needle marks on lower arm, leg or bottom of feet
• Body odor, bad breath or clothes giving off a foreign smell
• Excessive coughing, runny nose
• Insomnia or changes in sleep patterns; excessive tiredness or lethargy
• Changes in appetite or eating habits; sudden weight loss or gain
• Loss of coordination; difficulties with walking (slow, uncertain pace, staggering)
• Nausea, vomiting or excessive sweating

Behavior

• Inexplicable attitude/personality change
• Overly sensitive; loses temper easily; resentful
• Person exhibits rapid or excessive talk, seems hyperactive
• Shortened attention span; forgetfulness
• Unmotivated; loss of self-esteem; sudden indifference
• Moody, irritable, jumpy, paranoid
• Highs and lows; euphoria followed by depression
• Suddenly private or secretive; inexplicable, suspicious behavior
• Equivocates when asked to explain something; caught in lies
• Personal hygiene neglected; grooming habits change
  

Activities

• Uninterested in or avoids family and family activities
• Sudden change in established activity patterns or habits
• Old friends left behind or avoided; new friends appear
• New hangouts; new friends known or suspected of using drugs; won’t discuss them
• Performance at work or school degrades; frequently late or absent from school or work
• Asks for money without explanation; money or items of value missing.
• Drug paraphernalia discovered

For further guidance, please contact Recovery by Meridian by calling 1-877-876-9954 or using our Fast Email Form.