Addiction is a prevalent problem across the country. It is hard to struggle with addiction and just as hard to see our loved ones struggle. Intervention can be tricky. It is often difficult to know exactly when to begin an intervention. Addiction treatment is a choice and the individual has to want it for himself. For years, many bought into the concept of rock bottom and those with addiction could not be helped until they were there. While that is true for some, it does not have to be the case for all.
Footprints of Serenity is available to help anyone plan an intervention. It can help someone that may be resistant to help understand how much support is available. It is important to know the signs when it is time for an intervention. While it is never too late, there are points when intervention is best.
Signs When It Is Time For an Intervention
Change In Behavior
This is often a telltale sign that something is happening with an individual. You know your loved one and it is immediately apparent when something is not quite right. You may begin to see changes in the individual’s activities. He or she may go out late and have no real place to go, or at least nowhere that he or she is telling you. Sudden changes in someone’s mood or schedule do not mean that a person has an addiction. It means that you should pay attention and try to find out what is happening.
Appearance
When someone has a drastic change in appearance and dress, that is a sign of addiction. This person could also be depressed, or possibly, addicted and depressed. Typically, when someone is deep into addictive behavior, he or she no longer cares about appearance or hygiene. If your loved one is no longer showering or caring for basic needs, it is time to pay attention. Your loved one may stop combing his hair or brushing his teeth. An individual controlled by addiction may not change his clothes or just stay in pajamas. Getting a fix becomes the primary goal in an addict’s life. Nothing else matters.
Change In Emotions
Anger often seems to be the leading emotion for those suffering from addiction. Often, they do not like questions about their activities. When pushed for answers, they seem to lash out or become incredibly defensive. This is typically because there is an awareness of the control the addiction has. Someone with an addiction is often ashamed of his behavior and questions to shine a light on it. Drugs change people and have an impact on personality. When someone is high or coming down from a high, they usually behave differently and are quick to rage.
Decreased Mental Awareness
When someone is using drugs or alcohol, he often seems slow to respond. Someone in need of addiction treatment is slow in answering questions and may seem clumsy or move awkwardly. This is a direct result of the drug’s impact on his body. It is important that you pay attention to your loved one and not dismiss any behavior that is not in line with typical behavior.
Problems With Money
Drug addiction is expensive. Dealers often lure people in with free drugs in the beginning. This is intentional. The dealer wants the individual to become hooked so he comes back for more drugs. When someone is trying to get a fix regularly, the price increases quickly. Often addicts sell everything they can to have money for drugs. When you see someone suddenly unable to afford daily items, such as food, it is a huge sign there is a problem. Addicts will steal or do whatever they have to do to get the money for drugs. It becomes something that cannot control because the addiction has taken over.
These are some obvious signs that your loved one needs help and an intervention may be needed. It is important that you handle an intervention properly or it could lead to feelings of betrayal and judgment. Contact Footprints of Serenity today to begin planning your intervention. Find out all the ways Footprints of Serenity supports you and your loved one while going through addiction treatment. No one has to do this alone. We are just a phone call away.