Alcoholics and addicts think they are able to hide their addictive behavior from others. However, there are obvious signs that stand out. Over time, others can easily identify that the person has a problem with addiction. Those dependent upon drugs may think they are successfully hiding their habit from others, but obvious signs of standout addiction behavior will, over time point a very direct finger in your direction.
Here are few signs exhibited by those who are regularly using alcohol or drugs that give the addict away:
Mood swings
Continued use of substances such as alcohol and drugs affects your body and mind. When you are high you feel good. This is evident in your behavior. Under the influence, some alcoholics become overly talkative, while others become far more considerate towards their loved ones with over-the-top love and generosity.
On the other hand, if the addict is not high, he can become grumpy and display outbursts of anger over small issues. This happens when the alcoholic or addict is in ‘hangover’ stage and is in need of a ‘fix’.
Such behavior will initially confuse those around you. They will wonder what they are doing to cause such changes in your attitude and the intensity of reaction you display to incidents that actually are insignificant.
Soon this confusion turns to suspicion. This suspicion will be based on the fact that it is not their actions that are triggering such mood swings - it has something to do with you.
Regular disappearances
Addicts and alcoholics tend to take very frequent ‘bathroom breaks?’ Regular and extended disappearances appear abnormal and evoke suspicion.
Though the addict knows that such disappearances will eventually raise eyebrows and conjecture, he or she is unable to control the overpowering urge to feed his or her habit.
Personal grooming
For addicts, personal grooming is not the priority. Getting and consuming alcohol and drugs tops the agenda, always. They wear whatever is readily available and personal hygiene is neglected.
This is coupled with a gradual decline in general health. Typical signs are weight loss, extra-large or dilated pupils, unshaven, uncombed hair and a gaunt look. As this disheveled and unhealthy appearance becomes a norm, those around you will realize that there is something seriously wrong with you.
Failure to meet expectations
Addicts fall back on deadlines, do not attend to work or attend to appointments – they either forget, are unwell or simply don’t care since their substance becomes all-important.
While the addict is high, he may make tall promises to go there or do that, but for one reason ot the other, fails to live up to his commitments.
Many a times, due to extreme mood swings, what appeared like a great idea when he is high doesn’t seem attractive any more when he is down. So he doesn’t have an intention of fulfilling his promises any more.
Such behavior often leaves friends, colleagues and family members disappointed and saddened by broken promises and false hope.
Stop fooling yourself
Addiction not only damages your physical and mental well-being, it also adversely affects your relationships. Substance abuse has a huge social cost.
Your loved ones build disappointment, anger, resentments and fear in the relationship. Their trust is broken. They feel your behavior and reactions are unjust and, deep down, you know it too.
Continued abuse of alcohol and drugs leads to rapid deterioration in relationships. The addict may end up shunned and alone. This, in turn, will lead to increased drug use and depression.
Professional drug and rehabilitation services are widely available. They are not there to judge - they are there to help.
It is vital you seek this assistance before it’s too late.
Get honest with yourself. And reclaim your life!