Noticing Drug Addiction Symptoms in Our Loved Ones

Emotional Changes

One of the most obvious drug addiction symptoms will be changes in a person’s emotional state. An individual addicted to drugs is regularly on an emotional rollercoaster. Extreme highs and very low lows are common amongst regular drug users. They may be extremely jovial and full of energy one moment, and hours later be irritated, upset, and easily infuriated.

Personality Changes

Changes in personality are also an indication of a drug addiction. Spending more time alone and becoming increasingly withdrawn is an indication of excessive drug use. A person using drugs just won’t seem to be themselves. If you notice someone you care about is acting different and you suspect they’re using drugs, it could be an indication of a very serious problem.

Drug addiction symptoms can also include a tendency towards anger and violent behaviour. If you notice you or a loved one has become increasingly agitated and irritated, it could be an indication of a problem with drug addiction. People who have never displayed signs of violence or demonstrated any anger issues will often become indignant when they become drug dependent.

What Are the Physical Drug Addiction Symptoms?

Drug addiction can wreak havoc on a person’s physical body. It isn’t long before the physical symptoms of drug addiction will make themselves apparent. Some of these symptoms include:

• Lack of hygiene/personal care
• Bloodshot, watery eyes
• Extreme laziness
• Increased or excessive energy
• Weight loss or gain
• Changes in eating habits
• Cold or flu-like symptoms when not sick
• Pupils larger or smaller than normal
• Tremors
• Nausea/vomiting
• Needle marks on arms from intravenous drug use

Signs of Drug Use Amongst Various Substances

Every drug affects users differently. Following are the most commonly abused drugs and the signs of use for each. If you believe someone you love is struggling with a drug problem, the following are indications of various drugs and the way they commonly affect an individual.

Alcohol

Slurred speech, increased talkativeness, loss of inhibition, glassy eyes, clumsiness, loss of balance, belligerence

Barbiturates/Tranquilisers

Acting drunk, clumsiness, slurred speech, sleepiness, decreased judgement, trouble concentrating

Cannabis

Red, bloodshot, or glassy eyes, increased appetite, increased laughter and talkativeness, laziness, loss of motivation, lack of focus

Synthetic Cannabis (“Spice” or “K2”)

Similar symptoms to cannabis

Cocaine, Meth, Crack

Increased talkativeness, excessive energy, hyperactivity, going long periods of time without sleeping, loss of appetite, weight loss, sores or lesions on face and arms

Hallucinogens

Paranoia, strange behaviour, hallucinations, withdrawal from people, mood swings, confusion

Heroin

Cold or flu-like symptoms, runny nose, twitching, unusual sleeping patterns, track marks on arms, drowsiness, anxiety, depression

Inhalants

Seemingly intoxicated, drowsiness, increased socialness

Why Recognising Drug Addiction Symptoms Is Important?

Drug addiction can do irreparable damage to a person’s life if left untreated. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, it’s important to realise just how serious drug abuse truly is. When you can recognise the symptoms of drug abuse and know what signs to look for, it can save a person from doing even further damage. Once a drug addiction is recognised for what it is, the steps towards changing it can begin to take place.

Anyone who is suffering from an addiction to drugs needs to understand that there is help available. No one deserves to take on the heavy load that addiction entails. There is a way out of this struggle. Knowing the different things to look out for can help when deciding on various ways to begin to overcome addiction for good. Being able to distinguish what various drug addiction symptoms are is one of the first things that needs to be done to help a person struggling in this dark time.

Help for Drug Addiction in the UK

Once a drug addiction has been acknowledged, the next step is to figure out what to do about it. Addiction affects people differently and there are a variety of different options when it comes to getting help. While some people can stop using drugs and never look back, most people will need to get professional help. Please call us toll-free at 0808 278 9885 to see how we can help you through this trying time. We’ve got a free drug addiction helpline with trained professionals waiting to take your call.

If you or someone you love recognise some of the drug addiction symptoms mentioned above, there is no better time to call than now. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help you in your struggles with addiction. Not only are we connected to some of the best rehab centres in the UK, but can offer you sound advice in taking back the freedom from addiction you deserve.