Living with a spouse who is suffering from substance abuse disorder is difficult and challenges the very fabric of the relationship and marriage. Oftentimes, relationships that were once built on love and trust turn into a life of lies and deceit. This is especially true if the addicted individual has hidden their addiction for years.
If you are a concerned wife or husband, it’s important that you know the signs to look out for. In this article, we will look at signs your spouse is an addict and give you advice on what to do if you think your loved one is an addict.
Signs Your Spouse Is An Addict
The signs your spouse is an addict can be broken down into three categories: physical signs, behavioral signs, and psychological signs. It’s important to look at all three of these categories to get a better picture of whether or not your spouse is an addict. Most addicts will demonstrate symptoms from all three categories.
Physical Signs Your Spouse Is An Addict
Physical signs your spouse is an addict are the easiest to spot. These signs are outward and often relate to your spouse’s appearance and overall health. If you see dramatic changes in your loved one’s appearance, hygiene, and health, your loved one may be an addict. Here are some physical signs to look out for:
- Frequently bloodshot eyes
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in weight
- A decline in hygiene and overall health
- Foul smells or odors
- Sniffing and running nose
- Bloody nose
- Lack of coordination
- Slurred speech
- Tremors
- Physical marks like injection sites
Behavioral Signs Your Spouse Is An Addict
In some cases, individuals are able to keep their physical appearance in tiptop shape, even when they are suffering from substance abuse disorder. It’s more difficult for addicts to hide their addiction when it comes to behavioral changes. Here are some behavioral signs that your spouse may be an addict:
- Abandoning past hobbies, activities, and friends
- Neglect of personal and professional responsibilities
- Financial issues
- Run-ins with the law
- Trouble maintaining past relationships
- New, unusual friends
- Secrecy
- Suspicious behavior
- Aggressive behavior
- Erratic behavior
- Continuing prescription long after it is needed
Psychological Signs Your Spouse Is An Addict
Addiction majorly impacts a person’s mental well-being. Long-term use of many substances leads to serious mental health conditions. Some psychological signs of addiction include:
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Nervousness
- Depression
- Lack of motivation
- Appearing spaced out
- Excessively tired
- Abrupt mood swings
- Lack of memory
- Unexplained personality changes
What To Do When Your Spouse Is An Addict
If your loved one is suffering from multiple symptoms above, they may be an addict. It’s important that you act quickly and provide your loved one with the support they need so that they can begin recovery on the right foot.
To help your spouse, try to find a rehab facility that specializes in their addiction and problems. Talk to your spouse about the problem and encourage them to receive treatment. Many times, individuals will not receive treatment at first. If your loved one refuses treatment, it’s important to not enabled their behavior in the process.
Get Help Today
If you notice any signs your spouse may be an addict, they very well may suffer from a substance abuse disorder. It’s important that you help your spouse get the help they need so they can begin a life of recovery. Contact Ava Recovery today for an understanding rehab facility that can help your loved one. We offer various levels of rehab support so you and your loved one can begin the road of recovery together. Give us a call today to learn more about our rehab offerings.
