Are you worried your friend or loved one may be addicted to opioids? Call 800-934-1582(Sponsored) now to find a rehab center that will cater to their needs, and listen for these key phrases that will let you know they are struggling with a serious addiction.

1. “I Need It Because…”

Making excuses to use drugs is one of the more serious signs of a substance use disorder.

People in the throes of addiction may say they need to use drugs rather than to admit they have a problem, and there will always seem to be some excuse to absolve them of the issue. Some of the things you might hear include:

• I need drugs because my job is stressful.
• I have to take narcotics because my doctor won’t treat my pain
• I can’t enjoy myself unless I’m on something.

2. “I Can Stop Whenever I Want.”

Usually, someone who says this is not telling the truth – to you or to themselves. Having to say they can stop whenever they want implies that they know they shouldn’t be using drugs, but they are doing it anyway. This demonstrates a lack of control and is one of the strongest signs of addiction.

3. “I Can Live with the Side Effects.”

Some of the major side effects of narcotics addiction include:

• Constipation
• Drowsiness
• Impaired judgment
• Itching
• Nausea and vomiting

If your loved one does not want to seek treatment for these issues (even if they’re becoming very problematic), they may be abusing their medication. They would rather continue to experience these uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous side effects rather than seek help.

4. “It’s My Life. I Can Do What I Want.”

When a person becomes hostile toward their loved ones’ concerns about their substance use, they’re likely already addicted. The individual may also try to convince you that their drug use is not your concern because they feel they should be able to live their life how they want.

When they tell you this, remember that you are a part of that life. If their drug abuse is hurting you, it is your concern.

5. “Other People Are Worse Off Than Me.”

If your loved one begins comparing their substance abuse to someone else’s, they are in dangerous territory. It is common for individuals in addiction to minimize the severity of their substance abuse by saying things like, “I only use on the weekends” or “I don’t use as often as so-and-so.”

This is just their attempt at justifying their actions, and it is important not to give in to it.

Find Help for Your Loved One Now

If you think your friend or family member may be abusing narcotics to the point of addiction, seek help immediately. At 800-934-1582(Sponsored) , we can find rehab centers that will cater to your loved one’s needs as well as allow you to ensure they will get the help they require. Call now.