According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, drug overdoses killed over 60,000 Americans in 2016. And while this number continues to increase, more and more family members should be conscious of their friends and loved ones becoming another statistic.

Because opiate use comes with serious consequences, including life sentencing, you want to stop it before it starts. But what are the signs that you should look out for? How do you know that a loved one is dealing with an opioid issue?

Fortunately, there are plenty of signs that you can look out for if you suspect your loved one is using drugs. Here’s a list of signs of opiate use in adults.

Signs of Opiate Use In Adults: Using Drugs for Longer Than Intended

One of the signs of opiate use in adults is if you see your loved one taking prescriptions drugs for longer than needed. It may be extremely difficult to cut down and/or stop using the prescribed drugs for someone who is abusing it. In addition, they might take the specific drug in large amounts as time goes by in order to fulfill their high.

Miss Important Events

One of the sure tale signs of opiate use in adults is missing events. Whether it’s an important event or a recreational one – drug addicts will effortlessly choose their drug use over their families. This is why many broken relationships are derived from drug use. They are unable to juggle their responsibilities at work and home because of their mental state.

What to Do If Someone Is on Drugs

Responding to a friend or loved one that is addicted to drugs is not always the easiest task. Many times drug addicts are embarrassed and/or afraid of the next stages, let alone checking into rehabilitation.

If your loved one asks for help, it’s important that you point them in the direction of a healthcare professional. Encourage your friend throughout the process and remind them that you are proud of them for their bravery.

Fortunately, there are some alternatives for those who refuse to cooperate. You are more than welcomed to hold an intervention where you can invite family and friends to express their concerns.

Lastly, if none of these options worked, there are rehabilitation centers that are actually appealing to opiate users. Because these rehab centers make the detoxification process as comfortable as possible, most treatments are catered to each individual’s need.

Looking For A Lawyer? You’ve Come To The Right Place!

Whether you’re looking for signs of opiate use in adults or want to know what you should do after being arrested for a bar fight, we’ve got you covered. Because we know the frustrations that can come with charges, attorney Carl Barkemeyer is ready to fight for your defense.

Have a question about a charge? Need an attorney for an upcoming case? We’ll be happy to help. Feel free to contact us and a member of our team will be more than happy to assist you.