Telltale Signs of Drug Abuse

Do you know someone who always seems tired, easily confused, or irritated? Is their performance at work or school continually decreasing? Do they often withdraw from other people to spend time alone? Are they overly defensive when you draw attention to  these concerns? The bad news is that these are common signs of drug abuse. Fortunately, learning to spot the signs of drug abuse can help you identify whether someone has a drug problem. Once you learn the signs, intervention is possible to help that person get the drug treatment they need. Here are the telltale signs of drug addiction and substance abuse.

1. Physical Signs

A person who abuses  drugs suffers the physical side effects of withdrawals when the drugs wear off. The drugs can also cause intoxicating effects that can be  noticeable to others. Physical signs of drug abuse include:

• Red eyes
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Insomnia
• Weight loss

Individuals with a drug problem may also stop taking care of their physical appearance and hygiene.

2. Emotional Signs

Drug abuse also can also cause  changes to one’s emotional health. Depression, anxiety, and mood swings often go hand-in-hand with drug addiction. Drug addiction can become the primary focus in the addicted individual’s life. Thus, they often lose interest in all other activities.

3. Relationship Problems

It is not uncommon for relationships to be damaged or destroyed by the addiction due to loss of interest in anything other than servicing the addiction Addicts often seek solitude so that they can use drugs without anyone witnessing it. They may intentionally or subconsciously sabotage relationships in order to have more time alone. Furthermore, the behavioral and emotional effects of drug addiction are difficult for friends and loved ones to bear. The addicted individual may even become physically abusive. Additionally, the addict might start spending more time with others who abuse drugs.

4. Work/School Problems

Those who abuse drugs are typically impaired, either by withdrawal symptoms or by the drugs. As a result, the addict may be unable to perform well at work or school. Their interest in work or school can be  diminished as well. Often addicts will quit work and drop out of school entirely.

5. Other Behavioral Signs

Most of all, you’ll notice behavioral changes as an individual becomes increasingly addicted to drugs. These signs include:

• Slurred speech
• Loud speech volume
• Clumsiness
• Inappropriate, mindless, or rude comments
• Self-isolation
• Defensiveness
• Irritability
• Unpredictable/unexplainable behavior

You might also notice the development of other behavioral tics, such as twitching or compulsive actions.

Don’t Ignore These Signs of Drug Abuse

If you notice these signs of drug abuse, either in yourself or someone else, take action now. Share this information with a loved one who you suspect may be abusing drugs. Sign up for a consultation if you think you need help. Contact us right now if you have any questions or concerns. You can also find out more about our facilities and treatment methods by browsing our website.