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Poor sleep can worsen problems with mood and thinking, which may push someone further into substance use 3. Treatment centers often combine therapy, medication, and other methods to help people regain healthy sleep patterns while addressing the root causes of their substance use. Approaching a loved one about their drug use can be challenging, but it is a crucial step towards helping them find the support they need. By expressing concern and offering support, encouraging professional help, and demonstrating compassion, you can play a vital role in their journey towards recovery.
Drug and alcohol abuse can lead to extreme weight fluctuations. Many drugs like heroin and methamphetamine will suppress a person’s appetite. The nature of addiction causes people to become secretive and lie.
First, it’s important to know that there is no “type” of person who becomes addicted. People can face addiction no matter where they’re from, what they look like, or how much money they have. If you or someone you know is dealing with persistent muscle weakness or unusual fatigue, reaching out to a professional can prevent further complications and aid in recovery. Additionally, drug use can weaken muscles and lead to chronic fatigue, further affecting overall health. Drug use doesn’t just affect the heart – it can also disrupt the respiratory system, causing noticeable breathing problems. These signs suggest a shift in priorities often rooted in addiction.
Because of this, someone who is normally easy going and friendly can become irritable and short-tempered while under the influence or experiencing withdrawal. If someone appears extremely agitated, unable to sit still and becomes snappy for no apparent reason there is a good chance something is going on to cause this. People who inject drugs will have marks or small wounds, usually on their arms. These may also appear on the legs, hands, or sometimes even feet. These marks may become infected depending on the cleanliness of the needles used. Scarring may occur through repeated injection at the same spot.
Identifying the Symptoms of Addiction
It is important to note that the presence of these additional indicators does not guarantee that someone is using drugs. However, when combined with other signs and symptoms, they can contribute to a clearer picture of potential drug use. If you suspect that someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, it is crucial to approach the situation with care, empathy, and a desire to offer support and assistance. If you notice your loved one displaying signs of emotional instability or irritability, it’s important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Remember that drug addiction is a disease and not a personal failing.
Legal Troubles Linked to Substance Use
Understanding the impact of drug use and being able to identify signs of drug use is an essential step in addressing substance abuse issues. When it comes to identifying if someone is using drugs, awareness is key. Recognizing the signs of drug use can help you intervene and support your loved ones or students who may be struggling with substance abuse.
What are the complications of substance use disorder?
Keep an eye out for sudden changes in breathing patterns, ongoing coughs, or unusual respiratory sounds. These signs, alongside other symptoms, may point to substance abuse before the situation becomes critical. Drug use can lead to both immediate and long-term heart problems, often serving as warning signs of substance use.
Communicate your concerns in a non-confrontational manner and encourage them to seek professional help. Signs and symptoms of substance use vary widely from person to person and depend on the substance, length and severity of use, and an individual’s personality. Continued use of the substance may lead to changes in the brain’s structure and function. This can result in intense cravings, withdrawal symptoms, learning and memory problems, and personality changes.
They may choose to sleep all the time or not want to do anything that requires them to be out of reach of their drug. They may be depressed when they are not high or start to look at themselves negatively. The exact cause of a substance use disorder isn’t well understood. However, research shows that the changes to your brain’s reward system due to a substance’s addictive potential may cause the condition.
- Yes, drug use can cause a sudden change in appetite which can lead to weight loss or gain.
- Learning to recognize the signs and symptoms of substance use disorder can be the first step toward seeking help and receiving treatment.
- Recognizing these behavioral signs is just one step in the process of identifying drug use.
Two groups of synthetic drugs — synthetic cannabinoids and substituted or synthetic cathinones — are illegal in most states. The effects of these drugs can be dangerous and unpredictable, as there is no quality control and some ingredients may not be known. The risk of addiction and how fast you become addicted varies by drug. Some drugs, such as opioid painkillers, have a higher risk and cause addiction more quickly than others. Chemically enforced euphoria, a dreamlike state similar to sleep in which the person can drift off for minutes or hours at a time. For long-time Twelve-step program abusers, heroin may act like a stimulant, and they can perform a normal daily routine.
Reassure them that seeking help is a sign of strength, and that with the right support, recovery is possible. When approaching a loved one about their potential drug use, it’s essential to choose a time and place where both of you can have a private and non-confrontational conversation. Begin by expressing your concern for their well-being and emphasizing that you are there to support them. Neglecting responsibilities and hobbies is another behavioral sign that may indicate drug use.
- Different substances impact the body’s relationship with food and hunger in various ways.
- Healthcare professionals may perform a medical exam and take a medical history when diagnosing an SUD.
- Another symptom of drug abuse is having continual legal problems.
- By expressing concern and offering support, encouraging professional help, and demonstrating compassion, you can play a vital role in their journey towards recovery.
- You may notice sudden financial issues, missing valuables, or even run-ins with the law.
- Substance abuse can profoundly affect the dynamics between individuals, resulting in neglect of responsibilities and breakdown in communication or trust.
- Two groups of synthetic drugs — synthetic cannabinoids and substituted or synthetic cathinones — are illegal in most states.
When drug use becomes a priority in someone’s life, hygiene and outward appearance may become less and less important. Some may forget they haven’t taken care of themselves because of the mental effects of their drug use. Others simply stop caring as their time is consumed by the high and then getting more of their drug so they can get high again. Studies indicate that up to 41 percent of individuals battling alcohol addiction reported using barbiturates or benzodiazepines. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reported 15 percent of heroin users also used these drugs.
If you believe that your loved one may be dealing with substance abuse or drug addiction, reaching out to them is the best way to start a conversation help. Substance abuse can be overcome, and the odds of long-term recovery increase when a person seeks help through a professionally trained recovery center. Knowing how to tell if someone is on drugs can help you recognize when professional help is needed. Substance use disorder (SUD) is a problematic pattern of substance use that affects your health and well-being. Some of the most common substances include alcohol, opioids and marijuana.