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What To Do If You Think Someone Has A Drug Addiction

If someone you know is habitually using drugs, you may need to take action. An addiction to drugs can lead to physical and mental health problems and legal repercussions. People who become dependent on drugs may not be able to keep up with daily life activities, including working and tending to relationships.

To overcome their addiction, they may need to attend a drug rehab program.

How Can a Drug Rehab Help?

If the person agrees to attend a drug rehab program, they’ll have access to drug addiction resources, including medical treatment, intensive therapy, and life skills training. They may be prescribed certain medications during the initial medical review phase, such as suboxone, to reduce cravings for drugs.

Suboxone is used to treat opioid addiction and acts by attaching to the same receptors in the brain that an opioid would, reducing the need for the drug. It has also been proven to lower the risk of overdose by 50%. Other medications to reduce cravings for various types of drugs are also available.

Once the patient has been medically stabilized, they will begin the therapy portion of their treatment. This will include group therapy sessions as well as intensive individual work. The therapy aims to uncover the reasons for drug use and work to realign the brain’s thought processes to adopt healthier alternatives to drugs.

What Are the Signs of a Drug Addiction?

Addiction Warning Signs Image
The signs of drug addiction will vary by person and the type of drug used. However, if you are aware that someone you know is using drugs, you can look for the following signs of addiction:

  • Difficulties at school and disinterest in school-related activities
  • Poor work performance
  • Changes in physical appearance, such as poor grooming or hygiene
  • Increased desire for privacy
  • Lack of energy when performing daily activities
  • Spending more money than usual
  • Issues with financial management
  • Disinterest in relationships
  • Changes in appetite
  • Appearing tired or run down
  • Defensiveness when asked about substance use

Any of these symptoms may point to a drug addiction, especially when you know the person is using a drug regularly.

Where Can I Look for Drug Addiction Resources?

If you believe someone you know has become addicted to drugs, encourage them to attend a drug rehab program. However, keep in mind that the person may be defensive about their activities. You’ll want to have a strategy in mind before talking to them.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has a variety of resources available for people who have developed an addiction to drugs, as well as for friends and family members who have been affected by the user’s behavior.

You may contact SAMHSA for guidance and support. They also offer a variety of reading material on substance use disorders and drug addictions.

Are You Looking for a Drug Rehab in Kentucky?

At 2nd Chance Clinic, located in Somerset, KY, and Lexington, KY, you’ll gain access to medical treatment as well as counseling resources designed to help you or a loved one overcome an addiction to drugs. Our clinic’s trained providers will work with you to design a customized treatment plan to fit your needs. Contact us to get started today.