How Can I Tell if My Spouse has a Drug Addiction?

Last Updated: Sep 20th 2019

Reviewed by Brittany Polansky, MSW, LCSW

Although most people never intend to become addicted to a substance, addiction is a widespread problem nevertheless. While addiction is particularly widespread these days, those who have a drug abuse problem will try to hide the issue, but that doesn’t mean they’re bad people – they’re just embarrassed or ashamed for any number of reasons.

 

Common Drug Addiction Symptoms

There are many different symptoms that are indicative of an addiction to one drug or another, but there are some symptoms that are more likely to be visible no matter what drug or drugs the person has become addicted to. That being said, if you believe that your spouse has a drug addiction, these are some of the symptoms to watch out for:

  • Disrupted sleep patterns
  • Eating much more or less than normal
  • Not taking care of hygiene
  • Bruises, cuts, scars, or “track marks” on the body
  • Constant itching
  • Unprecedented seizures
  • Changes in skin complexion

 

Opioids and Heroin Abuse Symptoms

Addiction to opioids and heroin have taken over many people in South Florida due to the overzealous giving of prescriptions by doctors in previous years. That being said, if your spouse has been prescribed painkillers like oxycodone, Tramadol, fentanyl, or any other narcotic, they are at risk of being addicted to opioids. And if your spouse can’t get their hands on opioids because they have been cut off by their doctor, they may even end up taking heroin. The symptoms of these drug addictions are the same as those mentioned above, but some of them are much more common with opioids like seizures, disrupted sleep, and changes in diet.

 

Help End the Addiction Without Enabling

Helping your spouse get their hands on opioids is anything but “helping”. Doing so only enables them to continue using and dive further into their addiction. If you think your spouse might be addicted to drugs, contact First Step with any questions and get them into rehab should they need it.

 

Reviewed for Medical & Clinical Accuracy by Brittany Polansky, MSW, LCSW

Brittany has been working in behavioral health since 2012 and is the Assistant Clinical Director at our facility. She is an LCSW and holds a master’s degree in social work. She has great experience with chemical dependency and co-occurring mental health diagnoses as well as various therapeutic techniques. Brittany is passionate about treating all clients with dignity and respect, and providing a safe environment where clients can begin their healing journey in recovery.