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Why is it important to know the signs of a possible addiction?

Knowing the signs of addiction is crucial in getting your loved ones the help they need. By being able to identify the signs of addiction, you can save someones health, family life, job, school, relationships and even their life. 

Drug Addiction Signs

  • Changes in appearance to include: extreme weight loss, blood shot eyes, open sores or needle "tracks", dirty clothes, lack of grooming

  • Sudden disinterest in their job performance, school or things they usually love to do

  • Drastic changes in behavior or becoming extremely private or secretive

  • Asking to borrow unusual amounts of money

  • Becoming defensive when asked about their substance abuse 

Male Portrait with Smoke
Drinking Outside

Alcohol Addiction Signs

  • Wanting to stop drinking but finding oneself unable to so on their own

  • Being secretive about their use of alcohol

  • Changes in behavior to include slurred speech, memory impairment, and poor coordination

  • Becoming involved in risky behavior 

  • Wanting to spend less time doing the things they usually like doing like their social life or work in order to drink 

  • Becoming angry or upset when they don't have access to alcohol

Gambling Addiction Signs

  • Lying to family members or friends about their gambling 

  • Trying to win back money that's lost by gambling more

  • Risking their relationships, school, job and/or family life in order to gamble

  • Attempting to stop gambling but being unable to do so 

  • Asking others to bail them out because they gambled away all of their money

Image by Noémie Cauchon

Want our take on the matter? 
Take a listen from our podcast: In the Know

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