Difficulty:
Moderate
Instructions
Step 1
The person often appears impaired. If the person often stumbles, slurs their speech or seems unfocused or “out of it” without a medical explanation, they might be under the influence.
Step 2
They have a good job, but are frequently broke, with nothing to show for it. This is often a sign that the person is secretly buying drugs or alcohol, particularly if they often withdraw cash and never have any purchase receipts.
Step 3
They drink at every party, restaurant and bar. Having a drink now and again is fine, but it is a warning sign if they drink at every location and event.
Step 4
They say they need to drink or get high to have fun. This is a big warning sign. It usually means they have trouble functioning socially without being under the influence, or have been subjected to peer pressure to indulge.
Step 5
You find alcohol, drugs or drug paraphernalia hidden in their room or home. If they feel the need to hide it, it can be a sign of shame and a subconscious knowledge of their addiction.
Step 6
They act like drugs or drinking is “no big deal” and insult those that choose not to partake, or show responsibility with liquor. If they “protest too much”, it’s often a way of throwing attention off their problem.
Step 7
They often try to get others to indulge with them, and/or encourage others to use in excess.
Step 8
They prefer to associate with drinkers or drug abusers, rather than sober people.
Step 9
You see them frequently drinking to excess or abusing drugs. This, of course, is the most obvious sign, and a definite indicator that the person needs help.
Step 10
They get defensive or violent if you ask them not to drink or use drugs, or if you suggest that they have a problem. This is absolutely time for an intervention or outside help.
