There are many signs of addiction. Most often, we think about these as physical indications. A person is using more of a substance than ever and going through withdrawal when they stop. However, many people who have a substance use disorder (SUD) do not display as many of these outward signs
If you suspect that your loved one is battling addiction and needs help, consider the cognitive indications of SUD. These are signs that their brain is undergoing changes as a result of their continued substance use.
At Iron Bridge Recovery Center, our drug addiction treatment center in Chester, Virginia, is a resource for both those facing SUD and families that care. If you’re unsure whether your loved one needs help, please reach out to us to discuss what you’re facing. We are here to help.
How Addiction Impacts the Brain
As a complex and sensitive organ, the brain is constantly changing and adapting to its environment. That’s part of the reason why people are intelligent – the brain is evolving based on what’s happening around you.
Substances impact that function. They interfere with the way neurons send and receive messages through neurotransmitters. Some drugs, such as heroin and marijuana, will cause the neurons to be more active because those substances are more like a natural neurotransmitter in composition. Other drugs, like cocaine and amphetamines, cause a large release of natural neurotransmitters, which amplifies and disrupts the communication system of the brain.
Over time, it creates structural changes in the brain. As that happens, brain cells suffer damage. Thinking process morph. Over time, the feel-good high that comes from drug use stops working because, as the National Institute on Drug Abuse shares. A person feels flat and depressed. Things that were enjoyable no longer are.
Spotting the Cognitive Signs of Substance Use Disorder
Recognizing the signs of addiction in a loved one is really hard to do. You don’t want to see these changes because it means they are struggling. Yet, the sooner you recognize them, the sooner they can start on the path to recovery. Some of the most common cognitive-specific changes you may notice include the following:
#1: Impaired Judgement
Drug use creates a scenario of poor decision-making. They are making decisions about their daily life, responsibilities, and relationships that seem rash and out of place for who they are. You may notice that they are often putting obtaining drugs to satisfy their needs above anything – and everyone – else.
Many times, those decisions are irrational. They could be harmful as well. You know that this is different from the way they used to act.
#2: Lack of Foresight
A slightly different but equally worrisome aspect of this process is the lack of consideration for outcomes. A person who is engaging in routine substance use will start to prioritize that. It becomes so intensely important to them that they don’t think about the consequences of their actions.
For example, they make promises they do not keep. They don’t show up for a child’s game or forget about their parent’s birthday celebration. They don’t think that getting behind the wheel of a car after a few drinks will be a reason to worry.
#3: Memory Changes
Another profound change that occurs within the brain is damage to the memory center. A person may display memory changes in several ways, most commonly through forgetting. Short-term memory changes are not uncommon in people as they get older. Everyone walks into a room and forgets why they did. But what’s different here is that they do it often.
The second indication of memory changes happens when blackouts occur. A person may be losing portions of time. They don’t remember where the last few hours went or what they did the night before.
#4: Difficulty Focusing
Concentration changes are also common as SUD develops. It becomes hard to complete tasks, even those that they have done many times before. They simply “forgot” or cannot focus on the steps to achieve their goals. This often becomes obvious when school or work challenges arise.
Some people struggle through conversations, as well. They can’t remember what they were talking about or seem not to understand important topics.
#5: Distraction
Also, a communication-related change has to do with distraction. The ability of a person to complete tasks or follow through on a plan doesn’t happen because they are distracted or obsessed with something else.
Sometimes that’s in relation to their next opportunity to get the substances they want. Other times, it has to do with activities they are trying to navigate.
What You Can Do Now to Help Your Loved One
If you recognize the signs of addiction and cognitive changes in your loved one’s brain, now is the time to help them get into treatment. Our drug treatment center in Chester, VA, offers a comprehensive level of care that can make a difference. Contact us now to learn more.
