People start using drugs for many reasons. They may start under peer pressure or use it as a way to numb themselves emotionally. Some also start it as a recreational activity. However, it doesn’t take much longer for drug use to turn into drug abuse and addiction.
Drugs can have numerous negative impacts on a person’s life. The repeated and frequent use of these substances is a sign of addiction. Addictions have long-term impact on a person’s physical and mental health.
The longer a person is exposed to drugs, the harder it gets for them to stop. So, early detection of drug abuse is necessary to prevent drug addiction from getting out of control. People who are involved in this activity display several signs and symptoms that may help you detect it. Knowing these signs can enable you to help out a loved one before their problem gets worse.
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How to know if someone is using drugs?
People who are addicted to drugs, often deny being involved or try their best to cover up. Therefore, it is crucial to keep an eye out for any signs of change in your loved one. Symptoms of drug addiction differ based on the substance used.
However, there are some common symptoms to all the different kinds of substance addictions out there. Moreover, early detection can help nip the problem in the bud. It also increases the chances of getting completely cured of the addiction.
Battling addiction is not only hard for the person suffering from it, but for their loved ones as well. Nevertheless, you should pursue options that can help with overcoming the addiction. There are numerous organizations, like Delphi Health of the delphihealthgroup.com, that offer wide range addiction treatment services.
So, here are some of the common signs that can help you detect drug addiction and help you get your loved ones the treatment they deserve.
Physical signs
People addicted to drugs show several physical symptoms. For instance, they may have bloodshot eyes, look tired or lethargic, and have poor skin tone. Such people also experience fatigue, nausea, and trembling. Changes in appetite and unexplained weight loss can also be major indicators of addiction.
In addition to this, people addicted to drugs may be poor at maintaining their hygiene. This may include dirty clothing and lack of grooming.
Behavioral changes
Behavioral changes are also some of the most noticeable signs of drug addiction. People addicted to drugs may face social isolation and experience little pleasure in daily activities. Such people may get irritable or aggressive, especially when they are confronted about drug use or cannot use drugs immediately. Such changes may also involve hyperactivity and loss of inhibition and coordination. Loss of inhibition may also lead them to engage in dangerous activities.
Changes in mood
People involved in drug use also show changes in their mood and personality. For instance, they start to exhibit erratic or aggressive behavior. They may also appear to be anxious or irritable, especially during withdrawal.
Presence of drug paraphernalia
Some drugs require certain apparatus to be used. Hence, the presence of such paraphernalia in the person’s personal space may suggest they are using. Some of the items that can be used for this purpose involve:
- Syringes
- Bongs
- Rolled up banknotes
- Cut straws
- Small bags
- Rolling paper
Impaired functioning
Drug use leads a person to ignore their daily tasks and responsibilities. Thus, such people face impairment in their day-to-day functioning. They may fail to keep up with school, show disinterest in studying, miss classes, and so on. Similarly, it can also affect their work performance.
Other signs can include failure to meet family obligations and having financial problems.
Defensiveness
Defensiveness is one of the biggest signs of addiction. When a person is confronted, they may try to redirect the conversation, distract the other, or get defensive their habit. This can lead the person to lash out and get aggressive as well.
Hallucinations and paranoia
Certain drugs such as hallucinogens can cause hallucinations. Hallucinations mean perceiving something that is not present. They may report strange occurrences that are non-existent.
In some cases, drug users can also experience and display paranoia. This is can be a side effect of stimulants.
How to help someone who is using?
Drug addiction is a serious condition and millions suffer from it all over the world. However, few receive the treatment they deserve. People involved in drug abuse often fail to see it as a problem or remain in denial.
Therefore, when it comes to the well-being of our loved ones, we have to be vigilant. This allows us to intervene at the right time and prevent a big mishap from happening, such as an overdose.
If you see any of your loved ones displaying signs of drug addiction, it is important to step in.
Here is how you can deal with this problem:
- Start by confronting them calmly. Make sure not to imply blame of any sort.
- Communicate your concerns for their health and well-being.
- Research on different solutions and treatments.
- Provide a supportive environment.
- Try to keep them safe from situations that may enable them to use drugs.
- Convince them to get treatment.
- Consult a professional.
Concluding thoughts
Drug addiction is a serious condition that requires proper treatment and care. However, the effects of drug use, either physical or mental, are not immediately apparent, which is what causes the condition to worsen. Thus, it is important to keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms that someone close to you might display. Timely detection of symptoms can lead to avoiding trouble down the road.
Read also: Unique Ways To Treat Clients Suffering From Addiction Disorders