5 Ways to Catch Addiction Early

Addiction is a progressive disease that worsens over time the longer a person continues to use substances. As a person continues to drink or use drugs, the components of the body stop working properly. Over time, organ damage can occur. Cognitive function may decline. Stopping addiction early isn’t just an option. Getting a loved one into a drug and alcohol detox center is the most important life-saving strategy available for those with dependence. At San Antonio Recovery Center, we recognize that loved ones play a big role in ensuring families get the help they desire.

Catching Addition's Early Warning Signs

Stopping addiction early is always a goal. As soon as you recognize its presence, it is then possible to get into treatment to stop that progression. Take a look at these five warning signs you may see.

1. Lack of control: Many people with addiction simply lack control over what they are taking in. They have an inability to stay away from drugs or alcohol, often feeling compelled to use. They can’t imagine being able to stop.
2. More isolation: As drugs and alcohol take over, they become the dominant focus of a person’s life. Most often, people withdraw, isolating themselves more than they did before. Many times, this leads to forgotten commitments or abandoned relationships.
3. Pain and discomfort: Dependence forms when a person feels withdrawal symptoms or cravings for drugs or alcohol when they are not using them. That may include times of muscle or bone pain, headaches, insomnia, a rapid heart rate, and feelings of nausea and vomiting. They may also have intense cravings where they cannot stop thinking about the drug.
4. Engaging in increasingly risky behavior: Even right away, a person may engage in behaviors that are unlike them due to drug and alcohol use. That may include driving under the influence, engaging in unprotected sex, or displaying violent behavior. This may become more frequent over time as they use more.
5. Changes in personal appearance: Addiction’s focus leaves little time or care about taking care of a person’s health and hygiene. A person may be more likely to stop showering or may suffer from dental problems. Some lose a significant amount of weight because they are not eating routine meals.

When a person talks about using drugs or alcohol on a consistent basis, or more often than they used to, or engages in consumption at odd times of the day, that’s an indication it’s time to get help. Preventing addiction is only possible by not using these substances. However, many people may find themselves able to prevent dependence or worsening conditions if they take action quickly.

Stopping Addiction Early Means Engaging in Treatment Today

Don’t put off getting your loved one the help and support they need right now. For those that are at risk, treatment is most effective when it is obtained early on. The key is showing them that they need help and explaining the risk factors you see in them on a daily basis.

Let our team at San Antonio Recovery Center help. Learn more about our comprehensive and affordable treatment programs, including:

• Full detox center
• Residential treatment program
• 90-day treatment program
• Intensive outpatient program
• Aftercare treatment program

Find The Best Treatment for You at San Antonio Recovery Center

There has never been a more important time than right now to get help. Stopping addiction early means taking action today to get help. It doesn’t have to be challenging. Reach out to one of our compassionate counselors at San Antonio Recovery Center. Learn about the options available to you. Make the decision to get treatment. It’s lifesaving. At San Antonio Recovery Center, we are dedicated to working closely with you to achieve health in an affordable way. Reach out online or call 866.957.7885 to get the process started.