Have you ever noticed behavioral changes in your friend, colleague from work or even family member, such as a loss of interest in regular hobbies, mood swings, or distancing from family, and wondered what was up? You should know that if someone is abusing drugs, you can expect to see them acting differently.
However, not every behavioral change means drug abuse. Drug, alcohol or other kinds of substance abuse are always a serious problem with far-reaching consequences. It’s important to recognize the signs of drug abuse to be able to get help and avoid addiction and other negative effects.
Remember, it’s never too late to get started on a new path for success! Professional treatment is not just for addiction. Anyone who is regularly using drugs or other substances can benefit from it. Regardless of the stage of drug addiction, whether it is just regular use or drug dependence, our Detox Clinic in Brooksville is here to help!
If you’re worried that you or someone from your family or friends might be using drugs, here are some common signs of drug abuse to be aware of.
Common physical signs of drug abuse
Physical signs of using drugs can be spotted more easily than behavioral changes and may be the first indication of a problem. Although different types of drugs cause particular physical symptoms, some are universal to all drugs, including:
- Sleeping problems, like sleeping more or sleeping less, difficulty falling asleep, or being awake at odd times
- Changes in eating habits, such as a loss of appetite or an increased appetite, with resulting weight gain or weight loss
- Bloodshot or watery eyes with pupils that are too small or too large
- Extreme talkativeness or hyperactivity
- Tremors, impaired coordination or shaking in any part of the body
- Slurred speech, or saying things that don’t make sense
- Poor physical hygiene and unusual smells on the body, breath or clothing
- Clenching of the jaw
- Flushing or paleness in the face
- A runny nose
- A persistent cough
Common behavioral signs of drug abuse
As mentioned above, physical signs are not difficult to notice. However, the person using drugs often goes to great lengths to conceal or make excuses for behavioral changes. It is important to know that changes in behavior may be the result of different problems than drug abuse, i.e., the loss of a family member. If you know that behavioral changes can’t be attributed to any other reason, however, it might be a red flag for you to pay more attention to this person. Here are some common behavioral signs that someone is abusing drugs:
- Problems in relationships, including conflict in families and couples, as well as at work and with friends
- A change in performance at school or work
- Ignorance or neglect of responsibilities
- Financial and legal problems
- Risky behaviors, especially risky or dangerous things that a person normally wouldn’t do, such as stealing, or driving under the influence
- Unusual mood changes, e.g., more depressed or anxious than usual or extraordinarily euphoric for no obvious reason, as well as nervousness, paranoia or outbursts.
- Lack of interest in social interactions
- Lack of motivation and changes in thinking, such as struggling to remember things, making decisions, or thinking normally
If you’re worried that your loved one seems to be on drugs, don’t ignore it. It’s important to look for the common physical and behavioral warning signs of drug abuse. If you notice that some or all of them are present, there are a number of options that can be utilized to receive help. Although we encourage you to continue to observe and learn more about drug addiction, you can also seek professional care or advice at our Detox Clinic in Spring Hill, where our specialists will answer all your questions.
More about Detox in Spring Hill
At our detox clinic in Spring Hill and Brooksville, you will find the best medical specialists in the area of addiction. Dr. Eyad Alsabbagh, an Interventional Pain Management Physician, is experienced in the field of pain management and addiction, so he knows exactly what patients’ needs and expectations are. To get the best possible care you can find, we encourage you to make the right decision and admit yourself to our detox clinic in Spring Hill and Brooksville. If you have any questions or would like to find out more about our clinic, don’t hesitate to contact us.