When someone develops a compulsive, drug-seeking behavior regardless of consequences, an addiction has likely formed. Many addictions are marked by a tolerance (needing more of the drug to get the desired effect) and the presence of withdrawal symptoms when stopping use.

If you are concerned someone you care about is struggling with addiction, there are several red flags you can look for. However, it’s important to remember everyone is different; it may be harder to detect an addiction in some people than in others. That being said, here are some general warning signs to be aware of:
-Ignoring commitments or responsibilities
-Problems at work, school or at home
-Unexplained absences
-Appearing to have a new set of friends
-Considerable monetary fluctuations
-Staying up later than usual or sleeping in longer
-Lapses in concentration or memory
-Being oddly secretive about parts of personal life
-Withdrawal from normal social contacts
-Sudden mood swings and change in behavior
-Unusual lack of motivation
-Weight loss or changes in physical appearance

Inpatient recovery programs, also known as residential treatment, require patients to check themselves into a controlled environment to overcome their addictions. Patients stay at a clinic with 24-hour medical and emotional support.

Outpatient drug rehab is less restrictive than inpatient programs. Outpatient recovery programs usually require 10 to 12 hours a week spent visiting a local treatment center.

These sessions focus on drug abuse education, individual and group counseling, and teaching addicted people how to cope without their drug. Outpatient drug rehab can be a good standalone option for someone with a mild addiction, or it can be part of a long-term treatment program.

An intervention is a structured conversation between loved ones and an addict, often supervised by an intervention specialist.

If simply talking to the person with the problem doesn’t work, a group intervention is an effective next step. Interventions also show addicts how their actions affect those they care about. The goal is to help the person struggling get into addiction recovery and rehabilitation.