Ascension Brighton Center for Recovery
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Signs of substance use disorders
Interventions and signs of addiction
Substance use disorder is a disease, but it is treatable and recovery is possible. Our team at Ascension Brighton Center for Recovery in Brighton, Michigan, is here to help when you're worried about a loved one who is dependent on alcohol or other substances. An intervention is never an easy process, but it can be the first step to recovery. It may even save the life of your friend or family member.
Take the first step
Call 1-877-9-SOBER-1 (877-976-2371)
To self-refer an adult 18 years or older, use this secure online admission form for a confidential assessment by our care team. A customer service representative will follow up with you to schedule an in-person assessment.
Pre-intervention considerations and questions
- Don't wait until your loved one has overdosed.
- Addicts do not have to use illegal substances or drink daily to have an addiction.
- Does your loved one experience signs or symptoms?
- Is a mental health condition also present?
How much do you know about substance use disorders?
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What are the physical symptoms of an alcohol and substance use disorder?
- Bloodshot eyes
- Pupils larger or smaller than usual
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Deterioration of physical appearance or personal grooming habits
- Runny nose or sniffling
- Sudden weight loss or weight gain
- Tremors, slurred speech or impaired coordination
- Unusual odors on breath, body, or clothing
- Observation of the person drinking alcohol and/or taking depressants, inhalants, hallucinogens, heroin, fentanyl or stimulants.
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What are the behavioral signs of an alcohol and substance use disorder?
- Frequent emotional crises, arguments, violent outbursts, embarrassing behaviors and personality changes
- Difficulties in one's relationships (withdrawal from the family, extramarital affairs, sexual problems, separation or divorce)
- Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors
- Frequently getting into legal trouble, including fights, accidents, theft and driving under the influence
- Unexplained absences and neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home, including one's children
- Poor or suspicious behavior excused by close family and friends
- Noticeable signs of becoming personally isolated; sudden change in friends, hobbies and hangout locations
- Children of the individual displaying abnormal illegal or antisocial behavior
- Unexplained need for money or other financial problems; may borrow or steal money
- Using drugs under dangerous conditions (while driving, using dirty needles, having unprotected sex)
- Increased drug tolerance (the need to use more of the drug to experience the same effects one used to achieve with smaller amounts)
- Misusing drugs to avoid or relieve withdrawal symptoms (nausea, restlessness, insomnia, depression, sweating, shaking or anxiety)
- Loss of control over drug misuse (using more than intended, unable to stop, excessive drug prescriptions for self or family)
- Life revolves around drug use (always thinking of using, figuring out how to get more or recovering from use)
- Continuing to use regardless of negative consequences (blackouts, infections, mood swings, depression or paranoia)
Contributing source: https://www.ihs.gov/asap/familyfriends/warningsignsdrug/