Drug abuse, like many other scary topics, is something that can seemingly never happen to someone we know or love, until it does. Drugs do not discriminate on age, gender, ethnicity or anything else, making almost anyone a vulnerable target to develop problems with drugs.

Whether the habits start in social settings like high school or college, or in the home with their own or someone else’s prescription, the effects can be life long. Knowing what to do and how to deal with these issues, can prevent further problems and get the person on the road to recovery faster.

Signs of drug abuse may differ from person to person, but there are a few key things to look out for. Some of the first warning signs as listed by the American Addiction Center can provide key insight. They include but are not limited to; an increased desire for alone time, poor change in performance at school or work, and appearing tired or worn down.

This is a helpful list, but it’s important to know that even though a friend or family member may be showing these signs, they may not be addicted to drugs or alcohol. In addition, it is crucial to note that this is not an all encompassing list, and addiction does not affect everyone the same way.

If you think you have spotted some of these signs in someone close to you, and have reason to believe that they are addicted or becoming addicted to a substance, it’s vital to know what to do next. These steps vary based on your relationship with the person in question, as well as their age.

If you are the parent and the person in question is a minor, there are more options. In this situation, the parent has the ability to have more say in what goes on. The parent can have more power in getting their child to a clinic for rehab and treatment.

When noticing drug abuse issues in friends or other adults, on the other hand, there is less one can do in comparison. This being said, it does not mean that you shouldn’t try to do everything in your power to aid this person. Being they are older and not under your control, the best you can do is advocate for them to get help and provide support. However, if the person is under the age of eighteen, you should tell a trusted adult.

The options for minors and adults are similar treatment wise, and can be very beneficial to both when aiding in problems with drugs. One of the most known resources is rehab, or places similar. This can be a great option if the person would be best off with care around the clock ensuring a safe and drug free environment.

Environments like these can aid in the deterrence of relapses, as the withdrawal symptoms will happen in an area with doctors and medical professionals close by, without the ability to use the drug again. There are other ways to treat addiction as well, that are a little less known.

As the world advances its research into mental health and drug abuse, more treatments and programs arise. These solutions involve ones like wilderness retreats, service animals, or behavioral therapy.

All of these services can be very helpful, and it’s important to find the one that is right for the person struggling with addiction. Fortunately, we have moved beyond the previous idea that those affected could simply “stop taking the drug”, and now we have moved toward a more treatment based idea that has so many benefits for those affected.

As your loved one, friend or family, gets help, it’s important to remember that the hardest parts are yet to come and they need your support more than ever. Some people will not understand or want the support as much as others, but having a great support system and safety net can provide patients with the courage they need to power through their fears and start on the road to recovery.

This support is even more crucial when dealing with minors having problems with drugs. Having family members like parents and siblings, as well as friends, not judge them, and aid them through this experience aids in recovery. When the patient is provided confidence and sees that their loved ones will still be there for them, this hope helps them stay on track.

Even though professionals will do everything in their power to prevent it, relapsing can and does happen. Therefore it is important to remember that a problem with drugs does not have a one time, easy fix. Oftentimes there needs to be many rounds of treatment and an understanding of the drug and what it does to the person, in order to achieve progress toward fighting the addiction.

Whether it be prescription drugs, over the counter substances, illegal drugs, or anything of the like, there is a risk of drug abuse and addiction. Many, often just searching for that one time “feel good high”, get roped into something that harms their bodies, brains, overall physical health and so much more. When someone shows signs of becoming addicted, they need help and support. Simple things like offering assistance and showing them the right path can lead to a world of difference.

Seeing the signs of addiction in those close to you like friends or family members can be heartbreaking. This can cause denial, regret, and wondering if you could have done anything differently to prevent it. At this point, there is no point in focusing on what you could have done, and it is crucial that you look toward the future, and discover what you can do for this individual.

For more information from a reliable source, visit the national institute on drug abuse here, for information on drugs including but not limited to; opioids, prescription medications, inhalients, and many more. Problems with drugs are serious, ensure your loved one gets the help they need, today.

problems with drugs