What Is It Like Living with a Drug Addict?

If you suspect that someone you care about is struggling with drug addiction but aren’t sure what signs to look for or what to do, this article can help.

Signs of Drug Addiction

Watch for these signs that may indicate drug addiction:

• Repeated lying
• Missing money or belongings in the home
• Unpredictable behaviour
• Noticeable changes in personality

These signs may also arise from other issues, so communication is vital to understand the situation.

What Is A Drug Addict?

A drug addict is someone who is unable to stop repeated drug use, despite the behaviour causing harm to themselves and those they care about. Examples include:

• A husband spending his salary on drugs rather than the family.
• A child using marijuana despite facing school troubles.
• A wife secretly drinking daily.

Why Is Someone An Addict?

Addiction is viewed as a disease, meaning it is beyond the addict's control. It is frequently fuelled by past trauma or disappointment. In this sense it is good to have compassion for an addict, but it is crucial to understand that treatment and recovery is available, and they alone are responsible for their behaviour. Being an addict is not an excuse to hurt oneself or others.

What Is Enabling?

Enabling occurs when you allow a loved one to continue their harmful actions without facing consequences. For example, by constantly giving them a pass even though they have promised to stop stealing. If you enable them, you may support their addiction instead of helping them confront it.

What to Do?

Addressing addiction is challenging. Start by having an open and gentle conversation. Express your concerns and ask if they recognize they have a problem.

If they acknowledge it, they can seek help through various options. If they deny it, you must establish boundaries. Make it clear that their behavior has consequences, which could range from limiting privileges to more serious actions like involving authorities or ending your relationship with them.

The Truth

Confronting addiction is tough. Ultimately, the addict themself must choose to change, often motivated by facing consequences. For instance, if a housemate is banned from the house, it may prompt them to reconsider their behaviour.

Be compassionate while being firm. Remember that their actions are not aimed at you bur rather the disease and pain they are grappling with, however the hurt they are causing you or others is unacceptable. You control how much of that destruction you allow in your life.

Getting Help

There are many resources available for support. Look for local twelve-step programs or professional help, including rehab facilities. A good starting point is my book, Addict, published by Penguin Random House, which shares my journey from addiction to recovery from the point of view of 20 years of sobriety.

Further Reading: What Is Drug Addiction?