PsychSense: Sensible Psychological Solutions

Alcohol Use and Abuse:

It is not always easy to recognize when alcohol is becoming a problem for someone we love. First we do not want to see it and second the person is usually trying to hide it. Here are some clues to look for. Intoxication is usually easy to see. The signs of chronic use are more difficult to detect. Remember alcohol can become a problem for all ages. Older adults who live alone may be at high risk, as are adolescents. Here are some things to look for.

Sure Signs of Alcohol Intoxication

• Odor on the breath
• Difficulty focusing: glazed appearance of the eyes
• Irritability
• Excessive laughter
• Loud rapid, talking
• Sleepyness or stuporous in the later stages
• Inflammation in whites of eyes; pupils unlikely to be dilated

Changes Seen in Ongoing Alcohol Abuse

• Change in usual behavior
• Secrecy
• Decrease interest in appearance and hygiene.
• Decrease function in work or school
• Missing or tardiness at work or school. This often happens after time off.
• Increase in accidents
• Irritability
• Flushed skin
• Loss of memory (blackouts)
• Alcohol becomes the focus of activities.
• Loss of friends or different friends and associates
• Trouble in relationships, becoming secretive
• Forgetfulness in conversation
• Depression
• Physical illness, bruises

Marijuana Use and Abuse

Marijuana users are difficult to recognize unless the person is under the influence of the drug at the time. Casual users may show none of the general symptoms. Marijuana does have a distinct odor and may be the same color or a bit greener than tobacco.

Signs of the Influence of Marijuana

• Marijuana has a distinct odor, once you smell it you will recognize it. It smells similar to burnt rope on clothing or breath.
• Persons who are under the influence “high” tend to drive slowly, often below the speed limit.
• Persons under the influence tend to overestimate time intervals.

Signs of the Abuse of Marijuana

• Use or possession of paraphernalia including roach clip, packs of rolling papers, pipes or bongs.
• Financial difficulties (with long term use)
• Loss of interest in other activities with increased use
• Loss of motivation
• Increased sleep or time lying around
• Loss of job
• Loss of relationships except with other users
• Despondency, I don’t care attitude.

To learn to deal with someone under the influence of substances check out my book,

Behavioral First Aid: Managing Emotions During Emergencies