If you suspect your loved one is suffering with substance use disorder, it’s important to recognize some of the signs of addiction in their behavior. Here are seven potential warning signs to watch for:

• Avoiding friends and family – If you’ve noticed that your loved one has avoided gatherings with friends and family recently, this could be a warning sign. Try reaching out to make sure everything is okay, especially if you’re noticing a pattern.
• Getting high or drunk regularly – This one may seem obvious, but it’s easy to try and ignore this type of behavior if it has been a part of their lifestyle for a while. Take note of how frequent their using is so you can address it when the time is right.
• Talking frequently about using – If it seems like your loved one talks about drinking or using all the time, chances are that’s because it is always on their mind. If they struggle to free their minds of drugs or alcohol, they are likely suffering with addiction and need to find help.
• Getting caught in lies – Have you caught them lying about how much they are using or drinking? This could be a sign that they are becoming aware of the problem and may even be ready to seek treatment. Confront the lying in an effort to point them in the right direction.
• Poor work performance – Do you notice a change in their work performance? Whether it’s tasks around the house or a change in behavior in the workplace, these can be warning signs that they are drinking or using too much.
• Risky behavior – Have you witnessed them making risky decisions while under the influence? This behavior can result in serious harm and should be addressed immediately.
• Seeming depressed, hopeless or suicidal – If you see that your loved one has become withdrawn and depressed, it is important that you reach out for help. Make sure they know they are not alone and that you are there to help them find a treatment program that can get them on the right track.

Please be aware of these signs of addiction and make the lifesaving call to Cedar House. Our compassionate staff will work with you and your loved one to develop an individualized treatment plan to get him/her on the path to recovery.