Substance use disorder, commonly known as addiction, is not a choice. Addiction is a treatable medical disorder, and those struggling need our support. Recovery is always possible, and within reach.
Here are some signs of substance use disorder:
- Strong desire to use drugs.
- Inability to control or reduce use.
- Continued use despite health problems, disability, and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school or home.
- Use of larger amounts over time.
- Secretive behavior/disappearing for hours without explanation.
- Nodding off/drowsiness.
- Small pupils (specific to opioid use).
- Slurred speech.
- Weak memory and attention.
- Developing the need to use more to not get sick and/or go into withdrawal.
- Spending a lot of time to get and use drugs.
- High levels of spending and/or frequent need for money.
- Withdrawal symptoms that occur after stopping or reducing opioid use, such as: Negative mood/mood swings, nausea or vomiting, muscle aches, diarrhea, fever, sleep problems.
If you have a loved one who is struggling from substance use disorder, here are some initial steps to take:
- Educate yourself on addiction. Learn about the disorder and research treatment options at LTLSouthernUte.org or call the Southern Ute Behavioral Health Office at (970) 563-5700 for help.
- Carry naloxone, which reverses the effects of an overdose. Naloxone (name brands NARCAN and Kloxxado) is easy to use and can be found over the counter at stores. It can also be found without a prescription from the Southern Ute Health Center Pharmacy and the Behavioral Health Center and is distributed at many community events.
- Learn how to set boundaries for yourself, and how to take care of yourself while you’re supporting someone via individual counseling sessions with the Southern Ute Behavioral Health Office.
- Use person-first language when speaking with and about your loved one. For example, say “person with a substance use disorder” instead of “addict” as a way to separate the human from their condition.
- Offer the support your friend or family member needs—talk through their options with a doctor, go with them to pick up prescriptions, give them a ride to treatment, offer to watch their pet, etc.
- Listen to your loved one. Be their ally. And help advocate for them.
- Order a free Recovery Card to give to a loved one at RecoveryCardsProject.com.
Addiction is treatable, and recovery is always possible. There is strength in asking for and receiving help to better your life and your loved ones’ lives.
Stigma, or fear of judgment, is a major barrier for someone struggling with substance use disorder to get help. Members of the community are sharing their stories of addiction and recovery via the Lift The Label campaign to remove that stigma and point people to resources for treatment. These stories show what these individuals overcame to find recovery and share advice for those looking for help and support in finding treatment for themselves or a loved one. Read these stories and learn more about treatment options and resources at LTLSouthernUte.org.
If you have an immediate mental health, emotional or substance use concern, the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line is free, confidential and available 24/7. If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 or live chat at 988Colorado.com.