5 Signs of Self-Destructive Behavior in a Columbia Addict

Many different actions performed by an individual could be considered self-destructive behavior says Drug Rehab Columbia staff.  Being that self-destructive behavior can encompass a great many things, some of them may be recognized by the person doing it or their loved ones, while other types of them may not be.  Generally, these types of behavior tend to be a call for help from the individual.  Instead of asking for help they act out in ways that rather than assisting themselves, cause damage to themselves and the loved ones surrounding them.  

Recognizing the Signs of Self-Destructive Behavior

The likelihood is that you probably know or have known someone that acts out in this way.  It is not always recognizable until you are familiar with what could be considered self-destructive behavior.  Families and friends of addicts in Columbia, Illinois are learning to recognize the signs of self-destructive behavior in their loved ones.

Being able to recognize them in an addict is extremely important, being that it is a call for help.  In fact, knowing these behaviors could even help recognize that a person is an addict when noticed by a loved one.  Using drugs or alcohol heavily is in itself, a type of self-destructive behavior, but can go along with others.  Here are 5 signs of self-destructive behavior aside from abusing drugs or alcohol you can look for in your loved one:2

  • Bodily Harm – This is generally the most straightforward type of self-destructive behavior.  An individual may be cutting themselves or performing some other type of injury to the body.  A person being suicidal could also come under this heading.  

  • Eating Disorders – Bulimia, anorexia and other eating disorders can be considered self-destructive behavior.  Whether they are over or under eating, this shows a deeper need for help in some way or another.  Addiction can go hand in hand with eating disorders and can lead individuals to alter their eating habits in these ways.

  • Financial Overspending – Being too free and careless with their use of money can be a more subtle form of self-destructive behavior.  They could be buying too many things they cannot afford, gambling away all of their money, or spending it all on drugs.  

  • Lack of Physical Care – Not taking care of themselves can be an easy one to spot.  This could include hygiene habits, such as not brushing their teeth, wearing the same clothes many days in a row, or body odor due to lack of bathing.  It could also include not grooming themselves, or practicing proper nutrition.

  • Rejection of Help – When offered help, such as going to rehab, an addict may reject it and even be upset they are being offered help.  This is a sign of self-destructive behavior that shows they are attempting to sabotage themselves in a way.  It is a way of them saying they do not care about their wellbeing and do not need to be helped.  

Are you or a loved one struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol in Columbia, Illinois?  If so, do not wait to reach out for the assistance needed.  We can help find the treatment center that will be the perfect fit for whoever is struggling.  Give us a call today so we can help get you or your loved one onto the road to sobriety.