“Recognizing unusual body odors early can lead to timely intervention and effective addiction recovery.” Changes in the eyes are often the first sign, but drug use also affects other areas, such as sleep patterns. Drug use often leads to Alcoholics Anonymous a decline in a person’s ability to fulfill their responsibilities and maintain their usual hobbies.

Recovery is possible in the early stages, when infusions of the vitamin can restore thiamine reserves. But if thiamine deficiency is left untreated, neurological damage can become irreversible, and people experience a form https://contatando.com/gluten-free-survival-tips-for-the-summer-party/ of dementia. It is marked by hallucinations and other signs of psychosis, difficulties with memory, and confabulation, attempts to make up stories to cover gaps in memory.

Professional help for drug treatment and recovery

Relapse doesn’t mean that treatment has failed or that sobriety is a lost cause. Rather, it’s a signal to get back on track, either by going back to treatment or adjusting the treatment approach. People from all walks of life can experience problems with their drug use, regardless of age, race, background, or the reason they started using drugs in the first place. Some people experiment with recreational drugs out of curiosity, to have a good time, because friends are doing it, or to ease problems such as stress, anxiety, or depression.

Learn About Addiction

signs of drug use

The following outlines some of the physical and also behavioral signs that someone could be using drugs. Some people suffering from drug addiction may begin to shift their social circles or change their daily habits. Different friends, separation from family, and unexpected changes in their activity, work, or school performance are all signs of drug abuse.

signs of drug use

Steps to Finding Treatment

They occur when the body, having adapted to the presence of the substance, struggles to function normally in its absence. These symptoms can manifest in various forms, ranging from mild to severe, depending on the substance in question and the degree of dependence. Common withdrawal symptoms include shaking, also known as tremors, which result from the nervous system being overstimulated as it attempts to rebalance itself without the substance’s influence. Nausea and vomiting are also prevalent, as the body attempts to rid itself of any remaining toxins. Beyond these specific examples, substance use can drive individuals to take unnecessary or reckless risks that they might normally avoid. This could include participating in illegal activities, gambling compulsively, or putting themselves in physical danger without rational consideration of the consequences.

  • People with substance use disorder struggle to stop using the substance and often experience painful physical or psychological symptoms when they try to.
  • Eventually drug abuse can consume your life, stopping social and intellectual development.
  • If necessary, seek professional help to address their drug use and guide them towards recovery.
  • It is also wise to get help from your physician, family members, sober friends, and 12-Step support groups to overcome SUD and remain abstinent over time.

Discover what the science says about how they can enhance care and improve outcomes. Addiction is often marked by multiple periods of abstinence and relapse. It is common for people to make many attempts at recovery before succeeding, and many experts in fact view relapse as a normal part of the recovery process.

What are the risk factors for a substance use disorder?

Often, these loans go unpaid, leading to strained relationships or even complete relational breakdowns. Selling or pawning personal belongings is another significant red flag. From electronics to jewelry, individuals may part with their valuable possessions to finance their substance use. Over time, they may deplete their assets, leaving behind only the remnants of a once-stable household.

For Loved Ones: How to Support a Loved One’s Mental Health

  • One of the most alarming trends in recent years is the rise in prescription drug addiction, particularly involving opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants.
  • It is marked by hallucinations and other signs of psychosis, difficulties with memory, and confabulation, attempts to make up stories to cover gaps in memory.
  • It’s important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding.
  • Remember that addiction is a disease and needs to be treated with empathy and understanding.

We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical 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 provider. While the above behavioral signs of drug abuse are some of the initial red flags to look out for, these behaviors can also worsen or increase as drug abuse grows. For example, along with general dishonesty, one of the signs someone might have a signs of drug use substance abuse problem can include stealing money or pills.

Drug use often has telltale signs, including signs of a “high” that comes from the intoxicating effects of the drug. If you suspect a friend, family member, or someone else you care about is doing drugs, knowing the signs can help you make a plan to help. Our state-specific resource guides offer a comprehensive overview of drug and alcohol addiction treatment options available in your area. The initial stages of substance use and ultimately abuse often start with tobacco,alcohol, andmarijuana, and alsoprescription drugswhich can include anti-anxiety medication and sedatives. In fact, teens are more likely to abuse prescription and over-the-counter drugs, including painkillers, stimulants, sedatives, and tranquilizers.

Medication for Drug Addiction

Choosing the right addiction treatment ensures long-term recovery success. Additionally, engaging in unsafe sexual practices while under the influence is another frequent and alarming result of substance use. Impaired thinking often leads to neglecting precautions, increasing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or unintended pregnancies.