Their behaviour, their physical appearance, and certain stuff in their environment can provide clues as to whether your friend might be addicted to drugs.
Behavioural clues
Look for:
Physical clues
Look for:
Other clues
The following items could also be a sign of addiction:
It can feel daunting to confront a mate about their drug use, but it’s important for friends to help each other. You may feel hurt by things they’ve done, but remember that they probably didn’t intend to hurt you. Addiction drives the best people to make poor decisions.
Acknowledge that your friend might not see their drug use as a problem
Without an understanding that there’s a problem, there won’t be a solution. Be honest with your friend about what you think the problem is, and make sure they understand that abusing drugs is a serious issue.
Talk to your friend about your concerns
Talk about the negative effects of addiction in terms of something your friend really cares about. They might not be worried about their health or about getting through uni, but they may really care that someone they love is suffering because of their addiction.
Be positive and let your friend know that you’re there for them
Help them stay focused on positive goals that don’t include drugs. Support and acknowledge the positive things they do and achieve, and don’t abandon your friend when they slip up – it will probably take time for them to turn things around.
Avoid using emotional appeals
Don’t try to guilt-trip them, and don’t preach, bribe or threaten them; this will only upset them and push them away.
Sometimes, even the best efforts to help a friend aren’t enough to make them stop.
Find out about treatment resources that are available
Hillview Manor have self-help recovery programs that offer support from other recovering addicts, address the factors behind drug abuse and help people regain control of their lives. Our website has tons of information about addiction and getting help.
Don’t forget about yourself
When someone you care about is trapped in addiction, it affects you, too. We provides support and information to family members and friends of someone with an addiction.