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How To Watch Out For Substance Abuse Presentation

By Paul Graham


The number of people that are dependent upon both legal and illegal substances has been rising steadily for the past few decades. Abusing drugs, alcohol and a variety of other materials that lead to dependency is fast becoming the single biggest social and health dilemma the world has ever seen. Illegal drugs are freely available and despite their best efforts, law enforcement authorities are losing the battle against drug lords. Families must be aware of the substance abuse presentation signs if a loved one acts strangely.

It is extremely alarming to learn that more than two and a half million visits to emergency care facilities each year in the United States are directly related to overdoses. More people die of drug overdose than people perishing in road accidents. Thousands of children younger than fifteen start experimenting with dangerous substances every day. Half of them will continue their abusive behaviour and will become hopelessly addicted.

It is a sad fact that abusers endanger their very lives but even sadder is the fact that they so often destroy their own families in the process. Living with an addict can be hell on earth. They have only one priority and that is to get hold of their drugs. They will do anything. They will lie, manipulate, steal and threaten.

One of the early warning signs is when someone suddenly lose interest in hobbies and activities that used to be important. At the same time, the individual concerned often exhibit bizarre behaviour, being withdrawn and moody the one moment only to be extremely happy and bright all of a sudden. These mood swings are unpredictable. In many cases the affected person become careless about personal grooming.

Many addicts stop caring about personal hygiene. In the majority of cases they lose weight rapidly and do not eat regularly. They are unable to sleep at night but can easily sleep all day long. When they wake up they are moody and abusive. They cannot remain still and have to move constantly. They often show clear signs of paranoia, believing that someone is out to get them.

Physical signs include bloodshot eyes and constantly running noses. The pupils are dilated. The addict is nauseous and vomit without warning. They sweat throughout the day and they often struggle to breathe. All of these signs indicate an individual that has been addicted for some time and that is on the edge of suffering a severe health setback and even a fatal overdose.

Sadly, it is very difficult to convince addicts that they need help. Enforced rehabilitation seldom result in long term success. Experts advise families to provide addicts with love and support. The addict needs to know that help is available when they need it. However, when the addict utterly disrupts the household and the lives of loved ones, it may be necessary to exhibit tough love and to force the addict into a rehabilitation program.

Addiction is an ugly and destructive disease. Everybody around the addict suffers. Help is available but addicts need to be motivated to change their lives. One thing is certain. Families that simply accept and submit to the damage caused by addicts are not doing anyone a favour, least of all the addict.




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