Detecting an addiction early is essential for achieving successful rehabilitation. Addictions are a chronic disease that affects the functioning and structure of the brain. They begin progressively, and by the time the person starts to become aware of the problem, it has already been developing for some time.
Therefore, detecting an addiction early is key to overcoming it. To this end, it is important for family members, colleagues, and/or friends to be aware of and alert to a series of signs that evidence an addiction, as one of the clear symptoms of an addicted person is denying the existence of their addiction.
We speak of an addicted person from the moment the consumption of certain substances or behaviors take center stage in their daily life, and as a result, they evade other responsibilities. Other characteristic symptoms include mood swings, a lack of interest and motivation to perform activities, and depression. Addicted individuals also tend to isolate themselves, have conflicts, and change their social circles. In this sense, we also find alterations in the workplace. They stop going to work regularly, make excuses, become distracted, performance decreases, etc.
Physically, we find signs that can help detect that a person is having problems: irritated eyes, dilated pupils, nosebleeds, nasal discharge, or neglect of personal hygiene.
Finally, there are also changes in consumption habits and daily routines that must be taken into account. For example, finding wrappers, remains of substances in the room, money appearing without knowing its source, lack of appetite, binge eating, frequent health problems, or physical discomfort, among others.
It must be kept in mind that people with addiction problems will deny it and will prioritize the consumption or behavior over anything else. Therefore, it is important to seek professional help in a therapeutic center such as CC Adicciones so that they recognize the problem, become aware of it, and start a program to successfully overcome the addiction.
