Parents never want their children to fall victim to drug addiction or alcoholism, but the fact of the matter is that some of these events are inevitable. In an age where marijuana is gradually being legalized and opioids are running rampant through the streets, substance abuse disorders seem like common parts of everyday life. At the worst parts of these times, though, juveniles and young adults can also fall victim to dependence, where they cannot live without a substance running through their veins. So, how can you determine if your child is “at-risk” for addiction? Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information.
Physical Signs of Addiction
If a juvenile or young adult has started using addictive drugs, there are several physical signs you can easily identify. Here are some for you to consider:
- Dangerous weight loss: After consuming drugs, people will suffer from severe internal disruption, which can stimulate drastic changes in appetite and nutrition. Likewise, some drugs can force the body to burn calories in overtime in an effort to strengthen blood flow and oxygen absorption.
- Red/bloodshot eyes: Some drugs can trigger rapid changes in the eyes, making them look watery (like a person has been crying)
- Lethargy: Juveniles and young adults are typically energetic, so this factor should be a major concern for parents. Sleeping for endless hours and continuous exhaustion can be surefire signs of addiction.
- Jitters and chills: Drugs warp the brain’s ability to control nerve signals, causing spastic muscles, jitters, seizures, and cold body temperature (due to poor circulation).
- Nausea: This can accompany drug use and ensuing withdrawal symptoms.
Behavioral Signs of Addiction
One of the obvious signs of drug addiction in a minor or young adult is unusual and sometimes dangerous behavior and a sudden propensity for risk-taking. Unexplained bouts of aggression, extreme paranoia, poor academic performance, delinquent behavior, cursing, violent mood swings, and insomnia all hint at an underlying problem with drug abuse or addiction.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse, Alcohol Abuse, and Addiction
Always remember that alcohol does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your alcohol abuse or addiction troubles today.