More often than not, drug addictions start with an experimental use of a drug in social situations. And for some people, the drug use becomes more frequent. As time passes, a person may feel the need to use more of a drug to get their desired high, and soon a person may need the drug to simply feel “good.”
When we see this happen to a loved one, we do everything we can to help. But sometimes, our unconditional love simply isn’t enough.
Signs and symptoms of recent use include:
- Feeling of exhilaration and excess confidence
- Increased alertness
- Increased energy and restlessness
- Behavior changes or aggression
- Rapid or rambling speech
- Dilated pupils
- Delusions and hallucinations
- Irritability or changes in mood
If your loved one comes to mind with any of the above symptoms and behaviors, it may be time to consider addiction counseling.
As an addiction counselor, I will address the symptoms of your loved one’s addiction and the related areas of impaired functioning, and together we’ll structure the time and content of their ongoing recovery.
I believe the family is a system. When one part of the system is unbalanced the whole system is unbalanced. For that reason I assess the family as a whole. Each person is impacted by the one person’s addiction, therefore, the needs of each person must be addressed.
There are many paths to successful recovery that will work with the goals of your loved one, the desires of the family members, to ensure life changes that will last the test of time. Contact me today for a free consultation.