Being addicted or dependent on drugs and alcohol is a serious issue. The effects of this type of dependency can have harmful effects on health and lifestyle. Many people also lose touch with friends and family members. Some people may lose their only source of income and resort to illegal ways to feed their habits.
Signs
Knowing the signs of someone who may be dependent on drugs and alcohol will allow you to guide him to get the help he needs. One of the first signs is detachment or withdrawal from family and friends. Someone who is generally social or interactive with others and suddenly detaches could be abusing drugs or alcohol. Noticing that he hides or hoards alcohol or has more alcohol in the house than usual could also be a sign. Noticing prescription drugs in the medicine the cabinet that do not have his name on it could also be a clue. Feelings of hopelessness and withdrawal could also be signs.
Reasons
There are several reasons why someone may begin to abuse drugs or alcohol and become dependent on them. One reason could be that she had an accident or illness that has left her in chronic pain. She may have become addicted to prescription drugs during the course of the illness but has since been removed from the prescription from her doctor. She may have turned to stealing prescriptions or turning to street drugs or alcohol to feed the withdrawal symptoms. Another reason could be a life-changing event such as a job loss, death in the family or relationship loss. Turning to alcohol to feed loneliness is a common cause of alcohol dependence.
Types of Drug Dependencies
There are different types of drug dependencies. Prescription drugs such as stimulants, sedatives and painkillers are the most common type of dependent drugs because they can be habit forming. Street drugs or illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, marijuana and salvia are also highly addictive and someone can easily become dependent off of them. Inhalants found in spray paint, keyboard cleaner and other aerosol containers can also be highly addictive.
Effects
Any type of unprescribed drug that is taken in excess can prove to have deadly effects. Someone who may be strung out on drugs or binging on alcohol can easily overdose from not thinking clearly. Many have a total failure to thrive and may not be able to function in society as normal adults. They may lose their jobs, relationships may crumble and they may not be able to clean, feed and care for themselves. In severe cases, adult protective services may get involved to help an adult move to a safe location if he does not seek treatment on his own.
Types of Treatment
Treatment for severe alcoholic or drug dependent individuals may involve an inpatient care plan. Withdrawal from both alcohol and drugs can be extremely hard on the body, because it will crave the drugs and alcohol more than ever before. Flu-like symptoms, seizures and pulmonary issues can cause life-threatening symptoms, so medical supervision is necessary. Follow-up after inpatient care with outpatient behavioral therapy and treatment will also be necessary. Sober living and 12-step programs involving friends, family and other supportive individuals in the addict's life will lead to a proper recovery.
