Addiction can be a very tricky illness to spot. Although some habits might be easily recognizable (like sneaking out at night or the disappearing money trick), other habits (like restlessness or crankiness) could easily be mistaken for a bout of grumpiness. So, how are you supposed to tell if someone you know is suffering from drug addiction or alcoholism? How can you easily identify if a person has a problem or not? As strange as this may sound, the answer might lie in the games you played as a child. Bizarrely, if you start to remember the rules of activities like “hide-and-seek” or “blind man’s bluff,” you might be able to spot drug use or alcohol use right out in the open. After all, people who suffer from this mental disorder will play games (of sorts) to cover up their dangerous habits. Try to use these childhood games to recognize behavior associated with addiction.
“You’re Bluffing”
This game is practiced during childhood and perfected by adults, adding to a truly dangerous game. You may have heard this term used during a poker game, when a person puts on a “game face” and tricks the other players before duping them out of money. In fact, this game might be the most popular pastime for hardcore addicts, who are willing fool themselves and others around them to get their poison. All you have to do is push through their “poker face” and call their bluff.
A Game of Hide-and-Seek
Every child has played that game of hide-and-seek where one of the members is too good at playing, and you sometimes have to spend an entire 15 minutes to look for them. As you may have already known, drug addicts and alcoholics are experts at playing this game and can easily fool their friends and loved ones (sometimes). Many of these victims have a reason to be so discreet, as drug paraphernalia like needles or heating spoons could easily give away their habits. So, how can you beat this game? Simply stay quiet until you find the evidence (then confront them).
Cops and Robbers the Home Game
Unfortunately, this game takes a whole new spin for alcoholics and drug addicts, who can often find themselves on the wrong side of the law. In fact, a large number of breaking-and-entering incidences involve drug addicts who are seeking finances for their dangerous habits. Also, let’s not forget the string of traffic laws that are broken when a person drives drugged or drunk, which can result in severe punishment. In this case, this game is best played by one person. Stay away from people who may be capable of breaking the law in this case to protect yourself.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse, Alcohol Abuse, or Addiction
Alcohol abuse, drug abuse, and addiction are unfortunate aspects of reality, but, at any point in their lives, addicts and abusers can lay down the hammer on their illness. Quitting is only one step away. If you are suffering from a severe form of drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or addiction or have a friend or loved one who is coping with one or more of these problems, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the rehabilitation process and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. The time 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.