Understanding Addiction and Its Impact on Families

Recognising the Signs of Drug Use

​

• Amphetamines (including Methamphetamine/Crystal Meth) – Restlessness, aggression, rapid speech, erratic behaviour.

• Benzodiazepines (e.g., Valium, Xanax) – Confusion, dizziness, memory loss, mood swings.

• Cannabis: Often referred to as marijuana or weed, cannabis can act as a depressant, stimulant, or hallucinogen, depending on the individual. Signs of use include bloodshot eyes, increased appetite, impaired coordination, and altered perceptions. Users might appear more relaxed or, conversely, anxious and paranoid.

• Cocaine & Crack Cocaine: Powerful stimulants that can lead to increased energy, talkativeness, and euphoria. Physical signs include constant sniffing, a runny nose, or traces of white powder around the nostrils. Behavioural changes may involve heightened confidence, restlessness, weight loss and paranoia.

• Heroin: A depressant that slows down body functions. Indicators of use include pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, slurred speech, and needle marks if injected. There may also be a neglect of personal hygiene and withdrawal from social activities.

• Ketamine: A dissociative anaesthetic that can cause hallucinations. Signs of use encompass confusion, impaired memory, detachment from reality, and difficulty moving. Physical symptoms might include slurred speech and a staggering gait.

• LSD & Magic Mushrooms – Unpredictable mood swings, seeing or hearing things that aren’t there, distorted sense of time.

• MDMA (Ecstasy): A synthetic drug with both stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. Signs include heightened sensory perception, dilated pupils, excessive sweating, and an unusually elevated mood. Users might also display increased empathy and a desire for physical touch.

• New Psychoactive Substances (NPS): Often known as “legal highs,” these substances mimic the effects of traditional drugs. Signs vary widely but can include erratic behaviour, agitation, sweating, and unresponsiveness.

• Solvents and Aerosols (e.g., glue, gas, paint thinners) – Chemical smells on breath or clothes, dizziness, headaches, sores around the mouth.

​

Alcoholism

​

Drinking alcohol is a common activity, routinely enjoyed by about 80% of adults in England. Associated with relaxation, socialising and celebration, alcohol is available most of the time and everywhere. Supermarkets and sports venues, online outlets, hotels, trains and planes all sell it in abundance!

For some people though, drinking alcohol is a highly destructive activity that rules – and ruins – their lives. An inability to control drinking, and a relentless focus on getting the next drink, can have a devastating impact on a person’s physical and mental health, on their job, on their relationships and on their families. It can be hard for onlookers to recognise and accept that someone they care about has a drink problem. Here are a few signs to look out for:

​

When Does Social Drinking Become Alcoholism?

​

Alcohol is legal and widely consumed, making it harder to spot when drinking becomes a problem. Signs of alcohol dependency include:

• Drinking more frequently or in larger amounts than you feel is acceptable.

• Being secretive or lying about drinking habits.

• Hiding full or empty bottles or cans.

• Neglecting responsibilities at home and at work due to alcohol use.

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like shaking, sweating, or anxiety when not drinking.

• Drinking and driving.

• Slurred speech, loss of coordination or blackouts.

 

How Addiction Affects Families

​

When a loved one struggles with substance misuse, the impact on family life can be overwhelming:

• Emotional Strain – Feelings of guilt, frustration, or helplessness.

• Financial Struggles – Money spent on substances, loss of employment, or debt.

• Breakdown in Communication – Increased conflict, secrecy, and strained relationships.

• Health Impacts – Both the individual and their family members may experience stress-related health problems.

 

Getting Support

​

If you suspect a loved one is misusing drugs or alcohol, it’s important to approach them with empathy and understanding. Support is available to help both individuals and families:

• Families Out Loud – We provide support groups and counselling for families affected by a love one’s substance use in Wiltshire.

• FRANK – A national helpline offering confidential drug and alcohol advice. Call 0300 123 6600 or visit talktofrank.com.

• Turning Point Wiltshire – Local drug and alcohol services. Call 0300 555 0157.

• Alcoholics Anonymous – Support for individuals struggling with alcohol dependency. Call 0800 9177 650.

• Narcotics Anonymous – A community helping individuals achieve a drug-free life. Call 0800 048 4812.

You are not alone. There is help for you and your family.