ALCOHOL ADDICTION; how to learn and understand what is going on.

The Subtle Signs to Watch For

• Isolation, secrecy, missing family events, locking their bedroom door, making a fuss if anyone touches their possessions.
• Hostility, frequently angry or antagonistic responses, blaming others when any fault is found with their behavior or actions.
• Being gone from the home for many hours on many occasions. Not being able to be found where they said they would be.
• Needing more money than usual. Having different excuses all the time for needing to ask for money.
• Hanging with a new group of friends, especially older kids or ones who do not look like they are succeeding in school or life. Rejecting former friends, especially those who are succeeding in school or life.
• Abandoning activities they previously enjoyed. Underperforming at school or an after-school job.
• They are eating differently and have gained or lost weight without a good reason.

You see your child every day or nearly so. You might miss small changes that are accumulating into a distinctly different demeanor or appearance. Stand back and look at him or her without any preconceived ideas. What does he or she really look like now? How does it compare with a year ago?
If you see these changes, you would be wise to take action. Talk to your doctor. Talk to your child’s teachers. Look further for signs of drug use or paraphernalia. Your child’s life could depend on finding out the truth and leaving no stone unturned until you have the whole story.