What changes have you noticed?

People who are addicted to opioids may still hold down jobs and other responsibilities, maintaining the appearance of stability at work and home. Over time, however, the addiction is likely to lead to serious problems across the board. When a person is addicted to a drug, he or she will continue to use the drug even when it makes his or her life worse.

Common signs of opioid addiction include:

• Regularly taking an opioid in a way not intended by the doctor who prescribed it, including taking more than the prescribed dose or taking the drug for the way it makes a person feel
• Taking opioids "just in case," even when not in pain
• Mood changes, including excessive swings from elation to hostility
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Borrowing medication from other people or "losing" medications so that more prescriptions must be written
• Seeking the same prescription from multiple doctors, in order to have a "backup" supply
• Poor decision-making, including putting himself or herself and others in danger

If someone you love is addicted to opioids, you're also likely to experience changes in your thoughts and behaviors. You may find yourself:

• Worrying about your loved one's drug use, ranging from persistent anxiety to full-blown fear that your loved one is going to die
• Lying or making excuses for your loved one's behavior
• Withdrawing from your loved one to avoid mood swings and confrontations
• Thinking about or acting on the urge to call the police when your loved one uses drugs or uses illegal means to obtain them

It's common — and entirely human — to avoid addressing your concerns for fear your relationship or family will fall apart. You may convince yourself that you'd know it was time for action if your loved one's addiction was truly serious. Even doctors may overlook common signs of opioid abuse, assessing the people they treat through the lens of "knowing them" versus an objective assessment of opioid-related problems.

Some addiction experts now recommend that doctors interview family members as part of routine follow-up care for a person taking opioid medications. But don't wait to be asked before you voice your concerns. A person addicted to opioids — or any substance — is much more likely to recover if his or her family refuses to ignore or tolerate the problem. If you think your loved one may be addicted to opioids, talk with his or her doctor right away. Together you can determine the best next steps.