subject: Addiction In The Family [print this page] It would be a mistake to think that identifying an addict is a straightforward process. When it involves a close friend or family member, it can be all too easy to turn a blind eye to the problem. The good news is that, by recognising the symptoms, you can be of assistance.
There are two fundamental ways to spot an addict. When some becomes physically and mentally addicted to a behaviour or substance, certain actions and mood changes become manifest. Although not exactly the same for every addict, it is likely that they will adopt at least some of the behaviour described in this article.
When recognising addiction you need to keep an eye out for secrecy. This is one of the core behaviours that virtually all addicts adopt. It doesn't matter if they are using drugs, gambling or shopping, an addict will always become increasingly secretive the more they immerse themselves in their addiction.
For someone addicted to drugs, this may involve isolating themselves in their room and being secretive about their actions. A compulsive shopper will go to great lengths to keep their money seeking activities a secret from their families, and will hide the things that they buy. A gambler on the other hand will become quiet about the loss, or sudden windfall of money that they get.
Addiction comes in many varities. Physically, addicts are always up-tight, anxious and on the move, constantly seeking their next window of opportunity. Though the different addictions have their more distinct signs, all addicts hide a sense of shame about their addiction.
This causes them to be agitated, moody and often quite defensive about where they are going and what they are doing. The changes in mood are more subtle but are still readily apparent if you know what to look for. Recognising addiction this way will help you to prevent a growing problem in the future.
Emotionally the addict will feel strung-out, stressed and pushed to the limit. Paranoia is a very common side effect of addiction as the addict's natural secretive tendencies become their worst nightmare. Convinced that people are watching their every move, they are forced to become even more secretive and very touchy when questioned.
Isolation from friends is also a common symptom of addiction. This happens because of the enormous paranoia. The addict will usually feel safer if they can indulge their "drug" without the risk of being caught or arousing suspicions.
The addict will often start to move in new social circles that are a better fit for their addiction. Drug addicts will make friends with others using drugs; gamblers will become friends with other gamblers.
Finally they will withdraw completely from society as the addiction consumes them and they can think about nothing else. Identifying addiction now becomes relatively simple. Addicts that become consumed to this level can no longer hide their need to feed their addiction.
If you think you or someone you know is experiencing some of these tell-tale symptoms then kindly encourage them to seek help as soon as possible. It's important to be patient and not to try and bully them into getting treatment - the addict must voluntarily choose to enter treatment and you cannot make this decision for them. Show the addict the treatment options that are available and give them time to think about it; be aware that many addicts will initially be terrified by the idea of seeking professional help. Occasional reminders of your initial discussion are ok, but if you push too hard then you may drive them away. You may also find it helpful to obtain some information they can read and consider in there own time.
Putting off dealing with the problem will only make the recovery more difficult. There are a lot of treatment centres, support groups and rehabilitation clinics that can help you with free advice.
