Substance abuse doesn’t just affect individuals—it creates ripple effects that touch everyone close to them, especially spouses. If you’ve noticed your partner acting differently and you’re starting to worry about signs a spouse is using drugs, it’s essential to pay attention to these signs. Recognizing the signs a spouse is using drugs can help you take timely action and get the support your family needs.
In many cases, the signs start small: changes in behavior, shifts in mood, or secretive habits that don’t add up. Over time, these issues can grow into serious concerns that affect emotional, financial, and physical well-being. Below, we explore the top five signs a spouse is using drugs, and what you can do to help them find a path to recovery.
1. Sudden Behavioral and Emotional Changes
One of the first signs a spouse is using drugs is a noticeable change in their demeanor or behavior. You may see:
- Extreme mood swings—happy one moment, angry or withdrawn the next
- Loss of interest in family time, hobbies, or responsibilities
- Becoming defensive or irritated when asked simple questions
If these behaviors emerge suddenly and persist, it may be more than just stress or fatigue. These emotional shifts are often early indicators that substance use is involved.
2. Unexplained Financial Problems
Drug use is expensive, and it often leads to hidden or increasing financial strain. You might notice:
- Frequent ATM withdrawals or mysterious charges
- Bills are being missed, or household items are disappearing.
- Sudden need to borrow money without clear reasons
If your spouse is typically responsible with money but you’re noticing financial chaos or secrecy, it’s worth considering whether substance use could be behind the change.
3. Physical Health and Appearance Decline
Another common sign a spouse is using drugs is a decline in personal hygiene or health. While not every change means drug use, consider whether your spouse is showing:
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Unusual marks, bruises, or constant sniffles
- Changes in sleep patterns—staying up for days or excessive sleeping
- Bloodshot eyes, frequent nosebleeds, or slurred speech
When these physical symptoms accompany other red flags, they should not be ignored.
4. Increased Secrecy and Isolation
Addiction thrives in secrecy. If your spouse is suddenly guarding their phone, disappearing without explanation, or locking themselves in a room for long periods, they may be hiding drug use. You might also see:
- Lies about where they’ve been or who they were with
- Keeping new “friends” a secret
- Increased irritability when asked about their plans or behavior
This kind of secretive behavior is one of the most consistent signs a spouse is using drugs, and it can place a significant emotional strain on a relationship.
5. Trouble at Work or Legal Issues
When drug use escalates, it often affects every area of life, including employment and legal standing. Warning signs can include:
- Being written up at work, frequently calling out, or losing a job
- DUIs, arrests, or legal trouble that’s vaguely explained
- Continuing to use substances even after facing serious consequences
If your spouse’s professional life or legal standing is suddenly unstable, it’s time to consider whether addiction is a factor.
What to Do if You Notice Signs a Spouse Is Using Drugs
If you’re noticing these warning signs, you may be overwhelmed, heartbroken, or unsure of what to do next. It’s natural to feel confused, especially if your spouse denies the issue or blames other factors. But early intervention can make a big difference.
Start by documenting your concerns and any patterns you observe. Approach your spouse from a place of compassion, not confrontation, and express your desire to help them, not punish them. Avoid enabling behaviors, such as covering up for their actions or ignoring problems out of fear. And most importantly, don’t try to handle everything on your own. Addiction is a complex disease that requires professional help and family support.
Get Help from Seven Arrows Recovery
If you’ve recognized any of these signs that a spouse is using drugs, know that you’re not alone, and help is available. At Seven Arrows Recovery in Arizona, we offer personalized addiction treatment in a supportive and healing environment. Our programs address both substance use and the family dynamics affected by addiction, offering a holistic path forward.
Contact Seven Arrows Recovery today to learn how we can help your spouse reclaim their life—and how you can begin healing, too.
