When most people think of drug abuse and addiction, they imagine someone constantly using drugs and exhibiting severe symptoms. However, there are many signs and symptoms of drug abuse and addiction that can be subtle or absent in some cases. Here are seven signs to look out for if you think someone might be abusing drugs or addicted to them.
1. Changes in Appearance
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One sign of drug abuse and addiction to look out for is changes in a person’s physical appearance. Some people might begin wearing long sleeves or makeup regularly if they’re concealing track marks, while others might wear sunglasses and hoods even when it isn’t particularly sunny outside.
People abusing drugs like heroin and opiates often exhibit a worn, “sunken in” appearance, while those abusing stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine might have enlarged pupils.
2. Changes in Sleep Patterns
If someone you know begins having trouble sleeping, it might be a sign of drug abuse and addiction. This can include difficulty falling asleep or waking up frequently throughout the night. People addicted to drugs might also experience “nodding off” episodes without actually falling asleep.
3. Health Problems
Another sign of drug abuse is health problems. Drug addiction causes mental health problems such as depression or anxiety, but it can also cause physical problems like liver disease or lung disease. This is especially true if the person is smoking or injecting drugs instead of ingesting them. Regardless of the method, some drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine can cause severe damage to organs such as the heart or brain.
4. Changes in Sleeping Patterns
Changes in sleeping patterns are one of the most common signs of drug abuse and addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) says that people who struggle with drugs often have sleep problems throughout their lives. As a result, many individuals who struggle with addiction or drug abuse have insomnia.
5. Legal Problems
Drug abuse and addiction can also lead to legal problems. Many people who struggle with drug use find themselves in situations where they are breaking the law. It may be because they’re stealing things to pay for drugs or engaging in illegal activities while intoxicated.
Some people might get arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) or drug possession, leading to jail time or serious fines. Avoid such incidents and click here to contact for various addiction treatment options.
6. Financial Problems
Financial problems are another common sign of drug abuse and addiction. Many users spend their hard-earned money on drugs rather than bills or other essential items. This can result in loss of employment or bankruptcy, but it often leads to financial problems at home. If you notice that someone is spending an unusual amount of money on drugs, this could be a sign that they need urgent help.
7. Change in Behavior
Drug abuse and addiction can negatively impact your behavior. These changes might be subtle at first or appear later in life, but many people notice that their loved one’s behavior changes when they begin abusing drugs. Sometimes this manifests as subtle changes, such as staying up late to hang out with friends or skipping social gatherings. Other times, it can be more noticeable, such as irritability or aggression.
There are many signs and symptoms of drug abuse, but the most obvious is a person’s behavior. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these seven warning signs for an extended period, it may be time to get help. It’s never too late to seek addiction treatment – addicts can recover with the right support system in place.
