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When it comes to friends and family who struggle with the addiction to drugs or alcohol, there are usually two sides to it. People either had no idea what was going, or they saw it coming. Tragedy usually strikes when signs of addiction go under the radar. Typically people who struggle with substance use have other traits that indicate that they’re susceptible to drug addiction. It's imperative that you know when a loved one has addictive personality traits.
Dangerous and Impulsive Risk-Taking
Horror movies, roller coasters, and sky-diving are things that people will run to when they want a quick thrill. In a general sense, enjoying a rush of adrenaline can be a part of human nature. It becomes a problem when that thrill-seeking becomes dangerous and impulsive. A high-risk activity can provide the same high as a drug, and often people want more and more thrill until they eventually start experimenting with substances. It’s an excellent time to start having that hard conversation when a loved one’s risky behavior becomes unsafe.
Whirlwind Relationships
Do you have a friend that has been in the same toxic relationship that they can’t let go of? Maybe it’s a toxic relationship filled with roller coasters and gaslighting. Your loved one seems unhappy with that relationship and even always complains but never leaves. These relationships can become addictive; your loved one is always going back to a person that seems terrible for them. This trait is usually held by someone who is missing something in their life. Typically people who are consistently involved in a relationship that isn't positively serving them are susceptible to using drugs or alcohol. This may seem harsh until that same friend is partaking in unhealthy activities that they are hiding from you.
Keeping Secrets
Have you ever been talking to a friend that revealed new information to you as if they've told you before? Moments like that will leave you confused and lead to you questioning your memory. Friends with those qualities should be watched closely if their behavior ever changes. We all keep secrets to a certain degree, but moments where you feel like you don’t know someone as well as you did before, can be alarming. People who tend to keep secrets will most likely hide their addiction from you as well.
Tendency to Break the Law
People who use drugs or alcohol may need money to support their habit, and they will get it by any means. When a person struggles with substance use disorder, the brain is rewired to obtain a substance over anything else. Your loved one may do anything just to get that high. It can start with manipulation, and when that no longer works, they may resort to stealing, such as expensive items like jewelry or straight-up cash. Things like tools from Home Depot or copper from your AC unit can be stolen by someone fighting an addiction. When someone’s mind is warped due to addiction, their perception of reality can be off.
Never Getting Enough
Overindulging in anything can be unhealthy for anybody. Moderation is vital when it comes to many aspects of life. When people overeat, they gain weight. If you spend too much time at the casino, you can lose your money. If you notice that a loved one eats, drinks, or spends too much money, they could have an addictive personality. Every time they engage in something stimulating, they just can’t put it down.
Lying and Manipulation
Lying and manipulation may be easy signs to spot in loved ones. When someone is lying about their location or the time they are doing things, you may be alarmed. Unfortunately, if you know someone who is battling drug or alcohol use, lying will be the main component of their addiction. This could potentially be the first sign that you see. Disappearing for long periods and being dishonest about where they have been is a red flag.
Not only will there be lying, but there may also be guilt-tripping or manipulation. The first people those struggling with addiction may manipulate will be family and friends. These are the easiest people to start with because of the emotional connection. A family member or loved one will be more likely to help with money or help appease their loved one who is struggling. No one wants to see the person they care about struggle or suffer, and someone suffering from addiction might use that against anyone to get what they want.
Signs of an addictive personality should not be ignored. By habit, certain behaviors will be noticed but not acknowledged. If you or a loved one show addictive personality traits, START UP RECOVERY may be an option. If you have a loved one who has had changes in their behaviors or has become distant, it may be time to have a conversation with them. Recovering from substance use or getting ahead of the curve of suspected substance use doesn't have to be done alone. Do not be afraid to seek help if you see these signs in yourself. Drug and alcohol use is a common struggle and a battle that can be won by anyone who has the right people by their side. There are many resources out there for you that can help guide you in a healthier direction. If this is something you relate to or something that sounds familiar, contact START UP RECOVERY at (310) 773-3809.