Drug and alcohol abuse occurs when a person has an overwhelming need or desire to consume the substance of choice. The person may begin to feel the substance is more important than anything else in her life. According to HelpGuide.org, drug and alcohol abuse begins with experimentation, and can develop into away to cope with stressful situations. When this occurs, it may develop into addiction. Drug and alcohol abuse is treatable, but it takes an admission from the abuser, and a desire to make changes before treatment can begin.
Step 1
Look for drugs and alcohol that a person is using to deal with problems. Someone who abuses drugs or alcohol will feel that he needs a substance to overcome problems, according to the Mayo Clinic. Pay attention to comments and behaviors that signal this kind of behavior, such as saying he needs a drink to deal with daily stress, or that he needs to get high to fall asleep or start his day.
Step 2
Watch for her engaging in risky activities while under the influence of drugs of alcohol. A person who is abusing drugs of alcohol may be likely to drive a vehicle after she has have been drinking or while she is high on drugs. Pay attention to other risky behaviors, such as having unprotected sex with someone she barely knows, going to dangerous places, getting in a stranger’s car or hanging out with virtual strangers.
Step 3
Monitor his financial situation. When a person is abusing drugs or alcohol, he will spend money to get the substance, even if he does not have the funds to do so, the Mayo Clinic says. Notice if he purchases items on credit cards and saves cash to buy other items. Be aware of whether he is paying his bills or creditors on time. Observe whether he asks other people to borrow money. Determine whether or not he is paying back the people who lend him money.
Step 4
Boost awareness of his appearance. A person abusing drugs or alcohol may begin to neglect his clothing, hygiene and daily grooming, according to the Mayo Clinic. Determine if he is making the effort to shower or bush his hair regularly. Pay attention to whether he wears dirty clothes.
Step 5
Determine if the person has become more secretive. A person who is abusing drugs or alcohol may attempt to hide things from other people. Pay attention to her secretiveness. Notice whether she attempts to keep you and others from entering her home or room.
Step 6
Watch for a change in behaviors, and a change in the people with whom he surrounds himself. According to the Mayo Clinic, drastic changes in relationships with friends and family members could be related to drug or alcohol abuse. Look for new groups of friends to appear. Be aware of his attempts to push or reject family members who he used to be close to. Ask why he does not hang out with the people he used to.
