Do you suspect a loved one has a prescription pill addiction? It’s no surprise that more people develop a pill problem. Approximately 15 million people abuse prescription drugs in the United States.
The best way to help your loved one is admitting them into rehab. But before your intervention, you should survey their behavior. Drug addicts exhibit specific behavioral changes and problems.
Addiction is seen in someone’s psychological, physical, and behavioral well-being.
They not only cause problems for themselves, but also for their kids and loved ones in their life.
Knowing the signs and symptoms will help identify a prescription drug addict.
Here are 5 hidden and harmful signs of pill addiction.
1. Loss of Control
Someone who is addicted to prescription drugs loses control of many aspects of their life. They lose their job, their children exhibit problems, and many loved ones will break off from their life.
Addicts lose control of their life because their pill habit becomes their life.
2. Addiction Denial
If you host an intervention with an addict, be prepared: they will deny their addiction.
This is a common sign of a drug user. They either know they have a serious problem and are trying to hide it or they don’t realize they have a problem.
Prescription drug denial is common. Many addicts form their habit because they’re diagnosed with conditions that require pills. But then they stop relying on their doctors and start buying the pills on the streets.
3. Physical Symptoms
Change in appearance is one of the most obvious signs of drug use.
Someone who always cared for their appearance will stop keeping up with their beauty and hygiene regimen when they abuse drugs. Other obvious factors, such as sudden weight loss, is easy to pinpoint.
Here are other physical symptoms of pill abuse:
- Dilated pupils
- Bloodshot eyes
- Heavy undereye bags
- Body odor
- Looking unkempt and unhealthy
- Unable to talk or behave in public
Some physical symptoms, such as lack of movement and vomiting, point to overdose.
4. Depression and Anxiety
Addicts became physically and mentally addicted to pills. When they don’t have their pills, they become depressed and isolated. Some may even have panic attacks, especially if they’re addicted to anti-anxiety medication.
5. Mood Swings
In addition to depression and anxiety, your loved one may experience mood swings. These mood swings occur when they’re on and off pills.
While on pills, they seem happy and carefree. When they don’t have pills, they seem agitated and annoyed. Some experience aggressive and violent tantrums.
Seek Help for Pill Addiction
Pill addiction is an epidemic in America. Opioids and anti-depressants are easy to find and form bad habits. But identifying a pill addict isn’t easy.
If you suspect a loved one is hooked on prescription pills, identify the signs and seek the help they need. A rehab facility can monitor their withdrawals and integrate them back into society.
Are you based in Houston, Texas and need rehab treatment for you or a loved one? Take a look at our rehab facility.