Knowing when to intervene in a friend’s life in an attempt to help them with a drug problem is always a difficult thing to discern. Certainly, if you suspect their drug use is out of hand, you can tell them what you think. This is the mildest form  of intervention, and if the person trusts your judgment, they may listen to you.

This Rehabilitation Guide guide will help you understand what a severe drug problem looks like and when you should consider intervening.

Signs of Chronic Drug Use

Those with drug problems have symptoms just like those with any other severe issue. Intervening might be appropriate in the life of someone demonstrating these symptoms.

Missing school or work:

When drug use interferes with schooling or employment, it has advanced beyond the casual stage. If the person is forced to drop out of school or loses a job due to missed time, the problem is severe. If this occurs, and you haven’t spoken to them about the issue, now is a good time to do so. Before you speak with them, it will be helpful to learn about drug rehabilitation programs in your area so that you can suggest a program to them.

Risky behavior:

Drug use can often lead to risky behaviors such as driving under the influence, risky sex or crime. The drug user is creating risks for himself or herself and for others. All of these can lead to very serious consequences and should be addressed with the person in a concerned, though not harshly judgmental way.

Changes in physical appearance:

Weight gain or weight loss often accompanies drug use. The person may develop dark circles under their eyes. They may stop giving attention to their physical appearance. These are all signs of problem drug use and the need for some type of intervention.

Isolation:

Chronic drug users often become isolated when their drug use becomes more important to them then social interaction with others. If a person gets to this point, it may require the use of an intervention to get their attention. Of course, there  is no guarantee they will respond positively to others when confronted about their problem. Have treatment options available that you can recommend to the person, and be willing to take them immediately to meet with an intake counselor at a treatment facility.

If your friend is using drugs, it’s never too early to voice your concern. If their drug problem worsens, intervening can become a matter of life or death. Call a drug addiction hotline or speak to someone at a drug treatment program in your area for more information on how to effectively intervene.

Learn more about drug addiction, alcoholism treatment, prescription drugs, rehabilitation programs and addiction treatment facilities, by visiting our library of helpful guides and articles.