Warning Signs: How to Recognize Substance Use Disorder
Early recognition can save lives. Understand the behavioral, physical, and emotional signs that may indicate a loved one is struggling.
Recognizing substance use disorder early can make the difference between a manageable intervention and a devastating crisis. While every person's experience is different, there are common warning signs that families can learn to identify.
Important: Having one or two of these signs doesn't necessarily indicate addiction. Look for patterns of multiple signs occurring together, especially if they represent a change from previous behavior.
Behavioral Warning Signs
Changes in behavior are often the first indicators that something is wrong:
Secrecy & Isolation
Withdrawing from family, hiding activities, unexplained absences
New Social Circle
Sudden change in friends, avoiding old relationships
Work/School Problems
Declining performance, absences, loss of interest
Financial Issues
Unexplained money problems, borrowing, missing valuables
Legal Problems
DUIs, arrests, or other encounters with law enforcement
Schedule Changes
Erratic hours, sleeping at unusual times, unreliable patterns
Physical Warning Signs
Substance use often produces visible physical changes:
- Appearance changes — Neglected hygiene, dramatic weight loss or gain, looking tired or unwell
- Eye changes — Bloodshot eyes, dilated or constricted pupils
- Speech patterns — Slurred speech, unusually fast talking, incoherence
- Coordination issues — Unsteady movements, tremors, impaired motor skills
- Unusual smells — Alcohol on breath, smoke, or chemical odors on clothes
Emotional & Psychological Signs
Mood Swings
Rapid shifts between euphoria and depression, irritability, unpredictable emotional reactions
Personality Changes
Acting unlike themselves, loss of motivation, apathy toward things they once cared about
Defensiveness
Becoming angry when asked about activities, making excuses, blaming others
Anxiety & Paranoia
Increased fearfulness, suspicion, or nervousness without clear cause
What to Do If You Recognize These Signs
If you're seeing multiple warning signs in someone you love:
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1Don't panic — Your calm response is important
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2Document what you're seeing — Keep notes on concerning behaviors
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3Educate yourself — Learn about addiction before confronting
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4Seek professional guidance — An expert can help you respond effectively
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels wrong, it probably is. Families often sense problems before they have concrete evidence. Early intervention is always better than waiting for a crisis.
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