The idyllic family holiday scenes portrayed in movies and songs
rarely bear much resemblance to real life. It may be true that “there’s no
place like home for the holidays,” but what makes “home” unique may be your
family’s unique brand of dysfunction. Forced bonding and prolonged interaction
with extended family can lead to stress. This pressure can cause addiction
problems to rise to the surface. If the holidays have you concerned about the
health and well-being of a loved one, the following are some signs to look for:
Inability to stop – Has the individual tried to stop, but can’t seem
to? Do they plan to only have one or two drinks but lose their resolve as the
night progresses?
Physical withdrawal – Some individuals battling substance abuse may try
to quit or use less when with family, often out of fear of being found out.
This leads to withdrawal symptoms which can manifest as cravings, moodiness, depression,
angry outbursts, inability to focus, resentment, increased appetite, insomnia
and sweats.
Denial – Despite seeing negative consequences the
individual refuses to admit there is a problem or alter personal behavior.
Social withdrawal – Someone trying to hide an addiction may start
avoiding social situations that would interfere with using or lead to
confrontations. They may simply lose interest in activities that were once
important to them.
Relationship problems – This is a common result of an
alcohol or drug addiction. As focus turns to the substance, relationships
suffer, and other negative consequences of substance abuse cause friction with
loved ones.
Legal/financial troubles – Some addictions can lead to trouble with the law.
Substance abuse impairs judgment, causing individuals to take risks they would
not take when sober or to break the law to get the substance they crave. A
growing addiction can lead to financial problems, as the amount needed to get
the same high increases. Addiction can impact job performance and lead to a
loss of income.
Risk taking – As an addiction progresses, the addicted
individual will go to greater lengths to obtain the substance of choice. For
some, this can lead to risky behaviors including driving too fast, driving
while intoxicated, trading sex for drugs or stealing.
Secrecy and isolation – Addiction usually necessitates some measure of
secrecy to keep the problem hidden from others who would disapprove. This
becomes isolating.
Overindulging – Some individuals will consume to excess and
experience blackouts or physical symptoms.
Keeping a plentiful supply – Someone who is addicted to a substance will
always make sure there is a ready supply, even if it involves making sacrifices
elsewhere in the budget to afford their drug of choice.
It can be hard to tell when drinking a little too much crosses the
line into a drinking problem or when the stress of the season is masking a
larger issue. Someone with a substance dependence problem is not able to
control their use of that substance. They continue using it even at the risk of
physical harm or the cost of relationships, jobs and mental health. While
there are certain traits that are common among addicted individuals, the signs
and symptoms of substance dependence vary. Genetics, family history, drug of
choice and their own personal circumstances also come into play. When in doubt,
seek professional guidance.
Substance Abuse Help during the
Holidays at The Canyon
If you or someone you love needs addiction or
intervention help, call The Canyon at the
toll-free number on our homepage. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a
day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.
