How to spot signs of addiction?
by Anna
I concerned about my 17 year old son and I hoping you can tell my how to spot signs of addiction?
He has really started to change recently, he’s angry all of the time and is slamming doors and leaving for long periods of time. He won’t say where he is going and I’m afraid to ask him. His eyes are bloodshot and he is VERY pale. I know he is drinking because he smells like booze a lot.
What is my next step, how do I tell if he is just an average teenager or really has a problem?
How to spot…
Hi-I totally agree with Ned’s comments. I just wanted to add one thing-get some help for yourself, also. I highly recommend Al Anon meetings. They are for friends and families of alcoholics (we talk about drug addiction, too). I go and it has helped me a lot-my son has been using drugs for a long time. He’s now in jail but he IS saying he’s ready to get clean and give it all over to God. Also, a drug and alcohol counselor should be able to help you know what to do-or a regular counselor or medical doctor. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! There is a lot of help out there so be sure to think about yourself, too, and not just your son. Sincerely, Lynette |
Keep Your Eyes Wide Open
The signs include, but are not limited to: change of sleep habits weight loss/gain loss of interest in school and friends slumping grades no interest in his appearance mood swings that weren’t there before difficulty focusing loss of interest in hobbies and activities loss of appetite depression These are some and you are already seeing a lot of these for yourself. Al-Anon is an excellent source of information and support, so call them. Form a plan. Do not argue with your son, but you should probably get him a medical check-up. If you are afraid of him, that’s a bad sign. Get help and don’t do this alone. Be calm. Listen to him. Understand that he might lie to you and an addict will almost always lie to you. Be mom and take charge. Get the family involved. |