How to Spot the Warning Signs of Substance Use Disorder

The drug and alcohol epidemic in the United States remains a growing concern, straining individuals, families, and our healthcare system. According to the United States National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) released in 2022, 16.7% of Americans aged 12 and older struggled with substance use.

You don’t need to have a substance use disorder (SUD) to understand its impact. Around 46% of Americans have a family member or friend who has experienced addiction, a report conducted by the Pew Research Center found.

Knowing you or a loved one has a substance use disorder is challenging, and recognizing the signs can be just as difficult. Not everybody displays classic signs of substance use dependence. Some may seem fine on the surface. However, small changes in behavior or mood can signal a deeper problem. 

At Extended Medical Care in Dothan, Alabama, our team understands how recognizing these early signs helps you take action before the situation worsens. Below are some effective ways to spot the warning signs of substance use disorder.

5 subtle warning signs of substance use disorder

Here are some possible substance use disorder indicators to watch for:

1. Keep an eye out for sudden behavioral changes

Notice if someone starts withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed or becomes more secretive about their whereabouts and social interactions. These shifts in behavior can signal the early signs of substance use.

2. Don’t overlook abrupt mood swings

Look out for frequent and intense mood swings or heightened irritability. These emotional changes might be more than just a rough patch — they could signal substance use. If someone you care about seems on edge more often than not, it’s worth paying attention to.

3. Pay attention to physical changes

Notice changes in physical appearance, such as unexplained weight loss, poor hygiene, or bloodshot eyes. These physical symptoms often signal substance use. Even subtle shifts might point to a deeper issue that needs attention.

4. Monitor erratic spending 

Unexplained financial issues, such as frequently borrowing money or extreme changes in spending habits, can be a red flag. Substance use often leads to financial strain as it becomes a priority over other responsibilities.

5. Watch for signs of growing social withdrawal

If you see a friend or family member gradually retreating from social circles or avoiding interactions, this might be a warning sign of substance use. This growing isolation can be a protective mechanism, making it difficult for others to recognize their struggles.

Understanding the early warning signs of a substance use disorder paves the way for successful recovery. Recognizing these indicators early allows for timely intervention, which is critical in preventing the escalation of substance use into a more severe condition.

At Extended Medical Care, we take a comprehensive approach to treatment that starts with a personalized consultation, thorough lab tests, and a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Our licensed and LegitScript-certified providers are available to support you, whether you're in Florida, Alabama, or seeking help through our telehealth services.

Don’t wait until it's too late. Call Extended Medical Care in Dothan, Alabama, today or schedule an appointment online for expert substance use disorder treatment.