My Son or Daughter Needs Help

You didn't cause it. You can't control it. You can't cure it.

Addiction signs in your child

Addiction, whether to alcohol, drugs, gambling or sex is a complex beast. Because even a child supported and nurtured their whole life may still become an addict due to a combination of social and genetic factors. Hidden trauma may also play an active role.

A parent’s instincts are a powerful tool in recognizing the changes in your child’s behavior and appearance. Early detection and professional intervention are key.

Here are warning signs your child could be addicted:

Behavioral clues

Secrecy and locked doors. Avoids interaction and activities. Avoids eye contact. Addiction is a disease of isolation.
Friction in family relationships. Drives people away with challenging and off-putting behavior..
Radical shifts in personality or attitude. Moodiness and irritability. Sometimes followed by unexplained giddiness.
Asks for money. Or for increasingly larger amounts. Items of value may start disappearing from the house.
Will neglect responsibilities. May start skipping work. Stops taking care of possessions. Consequences don't seem to register.

Physical clues

Notice a change in sleeping patterns. Sleeping at odd hours. Staying up all night.
Changes in appearance, clothes, hair. Grooming habits. These changes often indicate a new group of friends.
Eating habits. Unexplained weight gained or lost. Marijuana will increase appetite, whereby cocaine, meth, heroin and Adderall will decrease appetite.
Beware of any unusual smells. Poor hygiene. Or strange odors emanating from clothes and hair.
Look for excessive sweating, tremors, or slurred speech. Trouble with coordination. Red, watery or glassy eyes. Either dilated or enlarged pupils. Dry mouth or runny nose. Repeated scratching of arms and face.

Addiction, whether to alcohol, drugs, gambling or sex is a complex beast. Because even a child supported and nurtured their whole life may still become an addict due to a combination of social and genetic factors. Hidden trauma may also play an active role.

A parent’s instincts are a powerful tool in recognizing the changes in your child’s behavior and appearance. Early detection and professional intervention are key.

Here are warning signs your child could be addicted: (323) 488-4114