Depression and substance abuse often go hand in hand. Mental illness can be linked to substance abuse as well. That’s why it’s so important to be on the lookout for signs of depression and drug abuse in loved ones with mental disorders, or even teenagers who seem to be depressed and are pulling away.
If you’re worried that your loved one is depressed and might have turned to drugs, then you need to get that person into a reputable rehab for depression and drug abuse as soon as you possibly can.
It’s important to choose a facility that works with your loved one to overcome not only drug abuse but depression as well. Here are a few things that you should know about drug abuse and depression so that you can help your loved one in the best possible way.
Top signs that someone you love is severely depressed and struggling
Being depressed is a common thing for many people. Many people get the blues every now and then and need someone to lean on. However, when that depression is constant and starts to take a toll on their everyday lives and activities, you know your loved one needs help.
There are quite a few signs and symptoms of severe depression that you should be on the lookout for if you feel your friend or loved one needs help. A few of the most common symptoms are listed below.
- A severe lack of interest in activities they used to really enjoy
- Changes in appetite, such as overeating or suddenly not wanting to eat at all
- Severe changes in their sleep patterns
- A lack of energy
- A feeling that they are worthless, in despair, and guilty of something
- Trouble concentrating on even the most simple tasks
- Suicidal thoughts that your loved one may or may not voice out loud
Any of these symptoms alone may not be something to worry about or they could be just temporary, but when it’s a combination of them all or they seem to persist for a long time, you need to get help for your loved one right away.
It’s important to note at this point that depression leads to suicide easily in some people suffering from depression, so be vigilant with your loved one, please.
Top signs that your loved one might be suffering from a substance abuse addiction
As previously stated, often depression and substance abuse go hand in hand. Of course, you don’t want to accuse your loved one of abusing drugs and alcohol, but you can look out for a few signs and symptoms. Taken alone, these might not seem that serious, but it’s worth checking into if it’s something you suspect strongly.
- He is secretive and evasive about most things in his life suddenly
- You catch her in lies more and more often
- He is having mood swings, as in being happy-go-lucky one moment and moody or angry the next
- Her weight is fluctuating wildly
- His appearance and attitude have taken a drastic hit from what is normal for him
- He is experiencing memory loss
- She’s stealing, even from family members
Depression and drug abuse are bad enough on their own. But when they’re combined, it can be dangerous for your loved one or even deadly.
If you suspect that someone you care about is suffering from severe depression and may be abusing drugs or alcohol, please get help for them somewhere as soon as possible, before it’s too late.