Whether you’re trying to determine if a loved one has a problem or you’re reading this because you’re wondering if you have an addiction, you’ve come to the right place. There are some signs that can point to a potential issue.

Health problems are often the first thing that occurs when someone is struggling with addiction. Their weight may change, their eyes could be bloodshot or glassy, or they might struggle to get a good night’s sleep. Someone who’s addicted to a particular substance may seem generally unwell. Their overall appearance may even change down to their hair and nails. The person may experience slurred speech and suffer from memory issues, depression, irritability, or apathy.

Another thing you may notice is changes in behavior. A person struggling with addiction may withdraw from family and friends that do not use the substance or participate in the activity they’re addicted to. They may focus the majority of their time on others who have the same struggle. They may end up being unreliable for things, not showing up to family functions or work. A person with addiction may start to do things they wouldn’t have done before, such as lying to their loved ones and even stealing from them.

Being addicted can affect their ability to think clearly and it can impact their moral compass. They may take risks that they wouldn’t have taken before they had an addiction. In general, someone with an addiction will tend to lose interest in many of the things they once loved to pursue the substance they’re addicted to.

Some of these symptoms can signify other problems. For example, a loss of interest in hobbies may be due to a battle with depression. Whereas unexplained weight loss could be due to another health issue. This is something to keep in mind when determining whether symptoms may be from addiction or another potential cause. It’s a good idea to talk to a medical provider about what is going on and follow their guidance.

If you suspect that your loved one is battling an addiction seek out experts in the field who can help guide you in what to do next and how to approach your loved one. If you’re battling an addiction, please accept help today, you don’t have to walk this road alone. There is a better life out there that you can attain with the right support.