79. CHARGING THE HABIT
What Research Shows
Credit cards provide a dangerous buffer between desire and consequence, and specific patterns of credit abuse often signal that drugs or alcohol are in control. This financial chaos isn't just bad planning. It is a sign of a life governed by addiction, using plastic to delay a crash that is inevitably coming.
What You See
A major warning sign is repeated cash advances. Normal users avoid ATM withdrawals on credit cards because of the terrible fees, but someone with an addiction doesn't care. They desperately need physical cash because dealers don't take digital payments. If you see frequent cash-back transactions or ATM withdrawals on their statements, take note.
If they are an authorized user on your account, you might find your card suddenly maxed out. Charges will pop up at liquor stores, gas stations, or late-night markets. When asked, they will react with anger, blame bank errors, or claim the card was stolen rather than admit where the money went.
Finally, they may refuse to look at statements, hide the mail, or change online passwords to lock you out. Seeing the numbers in black and white forces them to face the financial reality of their habit, which their denial won't allow. They would rather watch their credit score plummet and ignore debt collectors than stop using.
What You Can Do
Stop sharing account with them. If they are on your credit card, stop them from being able to use it for procuring cash. You can safely assume if your loved one is at the stage of using or addiction where there are a few problems with clear signs they are abusing alcohol or other drugs, then that person will be using your credit cards and money accounts to re-supply themselves. Moreover, it is a good idea to use universala caution about giving money to a loved one for the chances are they may not use the funds for the purposes they tell you. The idea for them is that maintaining an open supply of their drug of choice is the most important conswideration.
This sign is for awareness and education only. It is useful as a screening tool, not a diagnostic tool. It is not a substitute for professional assessment or treatment. If you are concerned about someone you love, speaking with a qualified addiction counselor or psychologist is always the right next step.