Some people seem completely normal. They work, they tease, and they never miss a deadline. But behind this facade, they suffer. Covert substance abuse does not always have obvious signs. And if you don’t keep a tab on it, you’ll overlook it.
That makes a difference—with early assistance, individuals can recover better.
Hidden Use Doesn’t Always Bode Trouble
Not everyone who drinks or does drugs appears to have a problem. Some keep it hidden. You may even label them “high-functioning.” They work, they have relationships and obligations. But that doesn’t mean they’re healthy.
You can’t always notice the harm. Substance abusers will go out of their way to conceal evidence—the eye drops to conceal bloodshot eyes, chewed gum to eliminate alcohol breath, long-sleeved shirts to conceal track marks. If all that’s available to evaluate is looks, then chances are you’ll miss out on what’s happening.
It’s not about an individual getting hammered once out at a party. It’s about rituals—the ritual that a user has, how often a user does it, what they need it for, and how they become if they can’t use it. If an individual gets anxious, grumpy, or withdrawn if they can’t use them, it’s a red flag.
Recognizing the Clues
You don’t need to be a pro to recognize warning signs. You only need to be observant about change.
Mood and Behavior Changes
People who maintain secrecy around drug use often have trouble keeping things in balance emotionally. They will be okay one day and then withdrawn or explosive. Mood swings aren’t always coupled with stress or insomnia. Something else is at work.
Sleep and Energy Transitions
Stints of energy and then sluggishness later in the day can be a sign of drug use. So can daytime napping or insomnia. If a person’s rest schedule changes dramatically without apparent cause, it’s a red flag.
Social Withdrawal
If an individual starts breaking appointments, skipping out on family and friends, or lying about where they are, it’s time to confront them about why. They might be isolating themselves in efforts to hide how often they use.
Decline in Reliability
Missed appointments, failed deadlines, or poor school or work performance can be a warning sign. If a former trusted individual starts to lag, it’s not about a lack of enthusiasm—it might be addiction.
Denial Is Part of the Problem
Addiction feeds on secrecy. Individuals keep it a secret because they feel ashamed or fearful that others will judge them. They lie to others—and to themselves—that they have it all under control. But denial is part of the disease.
“I’m Fine” Isn’t Always the Truth
If someone says they’re fine too quickly or too often, pay attention. If what they say doesn’t correspond to how they behave, believe what you see—not what they say.
Why We Miss It
We’d rather believe people are all right. It’s harder to think that a friend or employee is out of control. And if they appear to be going all right on the surface level, it’s only human nature to overlook the problem. But drug use isn’t always loud or attention-seeking.
How You Can Help
You can’t make somebody want to get help, but it’s definitely possible to be a trigger that will get them to think about it.
Start a Conversation
If it doesn’t seem quite right to you, then speak to them about it. That’s it. “You’ve not been quite yourself lately. Are things okay?” Don’t say anything accusing. Show concern but not judgment.
Recommend Therapies
Treatment succeeds only if a person gets due assistance. A program like Addiction Treatment Programs or Idaho Addiction Treatment provides therapy and clinically-managed treatment to help people achieve a recovery.
Support, Don’t Enable
Don’t confuse supporting a person with enabling a person. You can be supportive and still have boundaries about your own safeguarding. If this is hurting others or yourself, it’s alright to draw limits.
Learn More About the Issue
The more you know about addiction, the better you will be at recognizing it. Study about typical drugs, withdrawal signs, and what constitutes recovery.
When It’s Urgent
Some signs need urgent action. If someone is:
- While driving or at work
- Endangering themselves or others
- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
Don’t wait. Call a crisis call center or call emergency services. Dialing for help right away can save a life.
Final Words
Just because somebody looks okay doesn’t mean he or she is okay. Sneaky use is far more common than people think. Staying alert and reporting can help. Many times, reporting a justified inquiry can be a step in a better life for another human.
