Family members should pay attention to frequent tripping, unsteady walking, or avoiding activities that require physical effort 2. Weight changes linked to substance use can lead to serious health problems, including malnutrition, weakened immunity, and stress on organs. The normal signals for hunger and fullness may become disrupted, making it harder to maintain healthy eating habits – even during recovery. Drug use doesn’t just affect sleep – it can also lead to noticeable changes in physical health, such as shifts in weight or appetite. The helpline is free, and we can help you find a local counselor who can assist with substance abuse-related issues.
Unexplained Health Issues
Individuals struggling with drug addiction may experience extreme shifts in their mood and emotions. They might appear elated and euphoric in one moment, and then become irritable, agitated, or even aggressive in the next. In addition to the common signs and symptoms of drug use, there are several other indicators that may suggest someone is struggling with substance abuse. These additional signs can provide further insight into the presence of drug use and signs of drug use help guide intervention and support efforts. Secondly, identifying drug use helps individuals provide support and assistance to their loved ones who may be struggling with addiction.
What Are the Four Stages of Drug Addiction?
Breathing issues are a common physical sign of drug use, with symptoms that differ based on the substance involved. Various drugs impact respiratory function in distinct ways, making these symptoms useful clues for identifying substance abuse. Drug use can lead to noticeable changes in skin and hair health, often signaling underlying health issues caused by substance abuse.
- Addiction can reveal itself in physical signs, as well as psychological and behavioral ones, although they are not diagnostically specific for the condition.
- Relapse doesn’t mean that treatment has failed or that sobriety is a lost cause.
- By practicing the 4 D’s, individuals gain practical tools to navigate cravings and build a healthier, addiction-free life.
- Understanding drug rehab success relies on personalized treatment plans, evidence-based therapies, peer support, co-occurring disorder care, and robust aftercare for lasting recovery.
- Understanding the signs of drug use is crucial in identifying and addressing potential substance abuse issues.
- If they have a job or career, you may also notice declining performance in the professional aspects as drug use becomes the number one priority.
What are the visible behaviors of individuals struggling with drug addiction?
They will then start taking higher doses of those prescription drugs which can lead to abuse, and also the use of cheaper forms of opioids, such as heroin. If you’re struggling with substance abuse or are concerned about a close friend or family member, why not talk to someone in confidence about your concerns? The Mental Health Hotline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can answer your questions in confidence. Inpatient rehab physical therapy duration varies based on individual needs. It includes structured therapy, pain management, and aftercare planning to support a successful recovery. It’s important to approach the conversation with empathy and understanding.
- When someone begins using drugs of any kind they may start feeling as if they need larger and more frequent doses, even with something that started as social experimentation.
- Remember that these signs alone are not definitive proof of drug use, but they can be red flags that prompt further investigation or conversation.
- Many rehabs like Lantana Recovery, outpatient rehab in Greenville, South Carolina can be a valuable step towards achieving long-term sobriety and improved well-being.
- Friends in a teen’s social circle may be aware of drug use before adults are, either by directly observing the risky behavior or hearing stories from others in their friend group.
- Another sign of addiction is a shift in sleep and wake patterns—sleeping too much or too little, or at unusual times.
- These relationship challenges can further contribute to their social isolation and exacerbate their drug use.
Remember, it’s important to approach this topic without judgment or assumption. Substance abuse is a complex issue, and providing a supportive environment can make a significant difference in someone’s journey towards recovery. Drugs are costly to obtain, and using them can lead to a plethora of financial and legal troubles. People who do drugs may miss work and struggle to pay bills, get into debt, or steal money from others. They could also get arrested for possessing illegal drugs or driving while intoxicated. These types of difficulties could be challenging to handle and can have long-term consequences.
Material Signs of Drug Addiction
Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications can be misused more easily than others because they’re often easy for teens to obtain. Diet pills, caffeine pills, and https://ecosoberhouse.com/ cold and flu products with dextromethorphan are just a few examples of OTC substances teens may use. They may also have access to family member’s prescriptions for drugs like opiate painkillers and stimulants or get them from friends who do. Opioids include legal prescription medications such as hydrocodone, oxycontin, and fentanyl, as well as illegal drugs such as heroin. The annual rate of opioid overdose deaths for those aged 15 to 24 years is 12.6 per 100,000 people. Marijuana can impair concentration, worsen mental health, interfere with prescription medications, lead to risky sexual behaviors, or contribute to dangerous driving.
Warning signs of teen drug abuse
Other health problems like allergies, sinus infections, hormone imbalances, or mental disorders can also cause these symptoms in teens. Being on the lookout for drug paraphernalia and signs and symptoms of drug abuse can help adults recognize at-risk teens. Teenagers who misuse substances can experience drug dependence (substance use disorder). Developmentally, adolescents are at the highest risk for drug dependence and severe addiction. The body sends out a “feel good” chemical called dopamine when using a substance.
In the workplace, signs can include erratic behavior, drug addiction frequent absences, or a decline in work quality. Watching for these signs in loved ones, such as changes in appearance, secretiveness, or financial troubles, can help identify substance abuse problems. Understanding the context and specific signs in these situations enables targeted interventions and assistance. Different categories of drugs can lead to various physical signs and symptoms.
Signs & Symptoms of Drug Addiction
For example, Ikon Recovery Center in Saddle Brook, NJ, offers a range of services, including medical care, therapy options, and holistic practices. Dental problems are often one of the most noticeable physical signs of drug use. These issues can include tooth decay, gum disease, and general oral health decline, which are easily recognized by dental professionals. Facilities like Ikon Recovery Center address hygiene as part of their recovery programs, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding self-care habits. These programs often include personal care education alongside addiction treatment, helping individuals establish healthier routines.
- Approach the situation with empathy and encourage the person to seek professional help if necessary.
- Prescription medications such as painkillers, sleeping pills, and tranquilizers can cause similar problems.
- While it can be troublesome to see the signs ofdrug abuse, it’s also important to realize you shouldn’t jump to conclusions.
Open communication, support, and empathy are crucial in helping them seek the necessary help and support they may need. Encourage them to reach out to a professional or consider treatment options for substance abuse. Learning of your loved one’s substance abuse problem can be a devastating experience.