Are you worried your friend or loved one may be addicted to opioids? Call 800-934-1582(Who Answers?) 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…”

According to the National Library of Medicine, “Making excuses to use drugs” is one of the more serious signs of a substance use disorder.

People will constantly 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.

• 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, either just to you or to themselves as well. 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, which demonstrates a lack of control.

This is one of the strongest signs of addiction.

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

According to the NLM,

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

are all common symptoms associated with normal narcotic use. If your loved one does not want to seek treatment for these issues (even if they are becoming very problematic), it is likely they are abusing their medication and would rather continue to experience these uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous side effects rather than to seek help.

It is important to be aware of how your loved one feels about their use of narcotics, and this kind of attitude is definitely a red flag.

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, it is very likely they are already addicted. The individual will also try to convince you that their drug use is not your concern because they feel should be able to live their life how they want.

But you are a part of that life, and 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 addicts to try 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 into 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(Who Answers?) , 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.