Friends indeed supports each other in every aspect of life. However, this should not be true for things like consuming drugs or alcohol. Instead, as a responsible friend, you should be the one to stop your mate from going on the wrong track.
If you suspect your friend consuming alcohol or drugs, the best is to talk to them. But before that, you need to be sure of their acts. Thus, to help you, we have listed below a few signs of substance misuse and ways to converse about addiction with your friend.
Signs of Drug and Alcohol Misuse
Observe the following signs of drugs and alcohol misuse in your friend to help them further:
- Physical changes
These changes might not be realized by your friend but you can observe them. You can look out for
- Obsessive scratching
- Smell and breath of alcohol
- Slurred speech
- Bloodshot eyes
- Impaired coordination
- Psychological changes
- Lack of motivation
- Losing interest in school or extra-activities
- Paranoia
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Excessive fear
- Cognitive changes
- Poor decision making
- Lack of concentration
- Memory issues
- Reduced attention span
- Behavioral changes
- Suddenly making new friends
- Becoming secretive
- Isolating themselves
- Distancing from old friends and family
- Sudden changes in health
- Sudden weight loss
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Seizures
- Nosebleeds
If you notice any of these in your friend, be sure to consult them and insist to attend rehab.
How to Begin the Conversation?
Addiction is a very sensitive topic, especially, when you are trying to alarm someone about their drinking habits or drug intake. There are chances your friend might not even take you seriously or get extremely angry for bringing up the topic.
No matter how angry your friend gets, you should not lose your patience. Instead, try to be calm and gradually bring up the issue. Also, never talk to them when they are already under the influence of substances. At this time, they will feel the most vulnerable and matters can get worse.
The best time to talk about their drug or alcohol misuse is when they are sober and in a good state of mind.
Help your Friend with Treatment
Once you have discussed the matter with them, suggest they seek treatment at Mallard Lake Detox Center in Houston, Texas. With our detailed treatment programs, we are sure to help your friend.
Call us now for more details.