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Many people struggling with addiction cannot support healthy relationships because their priority is drug use. They often let drug use get in the way of their relationships with friends, family members, and romantic partners. Discover the power of home alcohol detox for a brighter future. Safely manage withdrawal symptoms with personalized care and support.
You can provide them with information on local resources, such as treatment centers or support groups, and offer to assist them in finding the appropriate help. If you believe immediate medical attention is necessary, don’t hesitate to contact emergency services. Remember, professional help and support are essential for addressing drug use effectively and promoting recovery. One common physical sign of drug use is bloodshot or dilated eyes. Drugs can affect the blood vessels in the eyes, causing them to appear red and bloodshot.
Know the Signs of Drug Abuse
Addictive substances alter the brain’s natural circadian rhythm which can actually cause sleep disturbances well after someone has stopped using the drug. Some drugs, like alcohol, marijuana, crack, or meth, have distinct smells that individuals may try to cover up. You may notice those smells on their clothes, in their car or bedroom, or on their breath or skin. Discover coping strategies and seek professional help for empowered recovery.
They may also choose to spend more time than usual away from home to hide their use. Over time, drug use alters the chemical and functional structures of the brain. Addiction and the intense need for a drug may cause someone who is normally very docile to become agitated and aggressive. Also, stimulant drugs may cause a normally depressed person to appear very energetic or even manic. Some of the most abused drugs are stimulants or depressants.
- Individuals who are using drugs may experience difficulty concentrating, lack of motivation, and a decline in productivity.
- Once you’ve been addicted to a drug, you’re at high risk of falling back into a pattern of addiction.
- When someone is sliding into addiction, they tend to hang out with people who also use their drug of choice, or use any kind of substance for that matter.
- People use cannabis by smoking, eating or inhaling a vaporized form of the drug.
- Sometimes called the “opioid epidemic,” addiction to opioid prescription pain medicines has reached an alarming rate across the United States.
Different types of drugs produce different effects on your physical and mental health. There are common signs and symptoms that suggest a person is on drugs. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical dangers of detoxing from alcohol at home professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.
People who face a substance use disorder may isolate themselves from their partners, friends or family members to keep their addiction a secret. They’ll try to avoid questions about unexplained physical changes, like track marks or weight loss, or odd behaviors. Understanding these physical and behavioral signs is just the first step in recognizing drug use. It’s important to approach the situation with care and concern, seeking professional help and support when necessary.
Drug addiction (substance use disorder)
Stimulants will provide a short or long-term energy boost, as well as improved attention. Depressants will reduce energy and make the user tired. Here are the most general short and long-term effects that using drugs can have on the human mind. Other physical signs include unusual smells on the body or mouth, cold and sweaty palms, and general deterioration of physical health. A loved one who has an addiction may be severely underweight, but they can also experience rapid weight gain or loss. Nausea and vomiting are a symptom of some drugs, so this might be a cause of weight loss.
Assure them that seeking help is a sign of strength and that they are not alone in their struggle. Reinforce your commitment to supporting them throughout their journey to recovery. Another indicator of drug use is an increase in absences or tardiness. People struggling with substance abuse may frequently call in sick or arrive late to work or school.
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. There may also be no drive to complete work or perform how they once did, especially if work-related stress is what led to substance abuse in the first place. Discover the power of buprenorphine and naloxone for addiction treatment. Discover the timeline for feeling like yourself again after quitting drugs. Find support, therapies, and a gradual recovery process for a brighter future. If you suspect that someone may be using drugs, it is essential to seek professional help.
If you or a loved one are seeking help for addiction, our network of addiction facilities are ready to welcome you.
Avoid being confrontational or judgmental, as this may cause the person to become defensive or shut down. Instead, use active listening skills and ask open-ended questions to encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings. By creating a safe and non-judgmental space, you increase the chances of the person opening up about their situation. Two groups of synthetic drugs — synthetic cannabinoids and substituted or synthetic cathinones — are illegal in most states.
Changes in Sleep and Appetite
If necessary, seek professional help to address their drug use and guide them towards recovery. This withdrawal from social activities can be a result of the person prioritizing their drug use over other aspects of their life. It is important to pay attention to any significant changes in a person’s social behavior and reach out to offer support and understanding.
Drug Addiction Treatment Options
They can then start taking higher doses of those prescription drugs, which can lead to abuse. They may also seek cheaper forms of opioids, such as heroin. Overall, 75% of heroin users report that the first detox opioid they took was a prescription drug. When you’re wondering how to tell if someone is using drugs, physical signs can be your first indicator, followed by behavior and psychological changes.
Drug use often leads to a decline in a person’s ability to fulfill their responsibilities and maintain their usual hobbies. Someone who is using drugs may neglect obligations at work, school, or home. They may experience a decline in their performance, frequent absences, or decreased motivation to scared of being sober fulfill their usual responsibilities. However, it’s important to approach the situation tactfully, focusing on providing support rather than judgment. It’s important to note that these signs should be considered collectively and in the context of the individual’s overall behavior and well-being.