Does any of this sound familiar?
• This is just a phase.
• All young adults party and have fun.
• It’s not her fault she got fired.
• It’s not his fault his wife left him.
• He’ll snap out of it.
• She just needs new friends.
• He’s under a lot of pressure and needs to drink to unwind.
If you’ve told yourself any of the above (or some variation of those comments) then you’re likely not facing the truth about your loved one’s addiction.
Lying About a Loved One’s Addiction
If you’re not willing or able to face the truth about your loved one’s addiction, chances are good that you’re also enabling your loved one by helping him or her cover up their alcohol or drug abuse.
Does any of this sound familiar?
• You explain your wife’s absence by saying she’s sick.
• You cover up for your adult son when he crashes his car.
• You lie to your own doctor to get pain pills to share with your loved one so that he or she doesn’t have to buy more pills—or heroin—on the street.
The problem is that it’s impossible to recognize the need for help—and get better—when everyone is hiding the truth. It might make you feel better for a moment, but it will only make the situation worse.
Signs of an Addict: How to Spot an Addict
You might believe the lies you’re telling yourself, but do you recognize any of the following symptoms of addiction?
• Blood shot eyes or pupils that are smaller or bigger than usual
• Weight loss or weight gain
• A sudden change in friends or secretive behavior
• Legal trouble
• A neglected appearance
• Drug paraphernalia
• Appearing drugged or space out
• Nodding off at inappropriate times
• Secretive behavior
• Unexplained financial trouble
• Sudden mood swings
If you do, it’s time to get real about what’s going on. The great news is that addiction is treatable and manageable.
Hope and Healing at The Raleigh House
Although it’s getting better, there’s still a lot of shame and stigma associated with addiction, which is why so many people are reluctant to admit the truth.
The Raleigh House is a treatment center located in Denver where residents are given the help they need to rebuild their lives. Our team of experts works together to tackle both the physical and mental aspects of addiction. Fill out our form or contact us today to learn more about our drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs.
