How to spot an addiction in a family member

Recognizing addictions can be very tricky, since most dependent individuals try to hide their behaviors. Unless the individuals are outwardly violent toward their family members, often, addictions can go unnoticed for years. But there are subtle ways to determine whether someone has become addicted to a substance or an activity. Consequently, we will examine how to spot an addiction in a family member.

Withdrawal from Family and Friends

Usually, the addicted person is so consumed by activities associated with the addiction that there is no time to attend family events or talk to friends on the telephone. Visiting with others becomes a nuisance and is bothersome.

Behavioral Changes

Children who are abusing drugs, alcohol or spend too much time at the computer often become sullen and withdrawn. Things that they previously enjoyed, such as sports or band practice, are no longer of interest to them.

Odd Charges on Credit Cards and Bank Statements

For spouses, they might be able to spot an addiction in a family member by closely reviewing bank withdrawals and credit card charges. Excessive cash advances, both in frequency and amount, as well as draining bank accounts, especially savings and special accounts, are indicators that something is not right. The locations of the withdrawals might give you a clue to determining what the other person has been doing. For example, if you notice that the cash advances or withdrawals have been conducted at ATMs in a casino, your spouse may be a gambler.

Suffer When Away from Substance or Activity

Certainly, many people overuse alcohol or spend too much time at the computer, but one way to know that they are truly addicted is by what they do when they are away from the substance or activity. If you go on vacation, for instance, does the person become irritable, moody, and disinterested? These may be signs that they are dependent on the substance to the point that they cannot go even one day without it. The truth is when they have reached this stage, the are actually suffering because they are away from their vice of choice.

Spending Long Times in the Bathroom

Girls that are addicted to purging will invariably leave the dining table and go straight to the bathroom. While this addiction is really a symptom of an eating disorder, it remains that once the person starts purging, it is difficult to stop. It becomes a way of life upon which she relies. The chronic use of enemas, laxatives and diuretics fall into this category of addiction, as well.

Excessive and Extended Periods at the Computer

Admittedly, this is hard to detect. Yes, people might spend hours each day at the computer, but does that mean they are addicted? Not always. In fact, many people earn their livings on the computer, while others may be doing legitimate research. Even a Scrabble game might take hours to play if there are different levels or features. This does not mean that the person playing the game is addicted. Where the problem lies, however, is when individuals never leave the computer. They forgo eating, bathing, sleeping, changing clothes, tending to children and pets, and ultimately become oblivious to the world around them.

Finally, the most basic concept in understanding how to spot an addiction in a family member is realizing that your instincts are probably right. Things that happen out the ordinary, that actually become the norm, are signs that something might be wrong.