Signs That Your Parent Is An Addict

Understanding Addiction

When helping an addicted parent, the first step is always educating yourself on the ins and outs of substance abuse and dependence. The American Society of Addiction Medicine defines addiction as “ a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry.” Their definition notes that addiction has numerous manifestations, including social, biological, psychological and spiritual, and that in order for addiction to be successfully overcome a multi-phased recovery program must be sought. Addiction is characterized by chronic drug or alcohol use in spite of personal consequences (which can be personal, legal, financial or health-related). Essentially, an individual who is suffering at the hands of substance dependence is unable to quit on their own accord regardless of how much motivation they have to do so. Understanding the Disease Model of Addiction is crucial to approaching your loved one with empathy and understanding, and having a calm and rational conversation prevents you from unintentionally pushing your loved one farther away. If you would like more information on addiction contact Guardian Recovery today.

Signs That Your Parent is an Addict

If you are still unsure as to whether or not your parent is an addict, there are several signs and symptoms to look for.

The most telling warning signs that your parent is an addict:

• Your parents used to encourage you to visit often (assuming you no longer live at home) – Now you might not hear from your mother or father for weeks at a time. If you do still live at home, you might find that your parents are less engaged in what you are doing. They might seem wrapped up in their own world and they rarely ask you about your own life.
• If one of your parents is struggling with addiction you might notice a wide range of physical changes – Maybe he or she has either gained or lost a significant amount of weight. He or she might be paying less attention to personal hygiene – teeth and hair are left unbrushed, clothing is left unchanged and showering is neglecting. Physical changes might also include increased tiredness and fatigue, bloodshot eyes or pale, pallid skin.
• If one of your parents has been struggling with addiction he or she might be struggling to stay afloat at work – Symptoms of a substance abuse disorder could include showing up to work while intoxicated, showing up late or failing to show up altogether and regularly missing important meetings. Of course, if your parent gets laid off entirely and fails to give you a straightforward answer as to why, that is also a good indication that something is wrong.
• Significant behavioral changes are often a telltale sign of substance abuse – If your parent begins staying out later than normal, sleeping all day or engaging in other behaviors that are out of character, there is a good chance that he or she is using alcohol or drugs. You might find that your mother or father is being blatantly dishonest about certain things as well.
• Mood swings are also a good indication – If your father or mother is more short-tempered than normal, or if he or she seems happy and social one minute then angry and defensive the next, this emotional instability could be attributed to a substance abuse issue.

There are many more signs to keep an eye out for – the above-listed warning signs are truly the tip of the iceberg. If you feel like something is wrong there is a good chance it is – and remember, for more information you can always call Guardian Recovery. We are standing by to help you in any and every way possible.