People are always surprised when they find out that someone they know or love is a drug addict or is abusing substances, even when the signs are already there. It is not something people normally look out for or are prepared to handle. Under most situations, people are either unaware or refuse to see. Loved ones are often in denial themselves, believing that it cannot happen to their family or friend. Others think that the situation can be handled privately. There are a lot of signs of possible drug addiction. Seeing any unusual signs is not an automatic symptom of drug abuse and could be signs of other issues or medical conditions. However, if the symptoms continue for a prolonged period or when seeing a series of signs, immediate attention is needed. In situations where drug abuse is assumed, it is best to quickly seek the advice of an interventionist or a specialist experienced in handling drug addiction cases.
Drug abuse signs differ depending on the substance being abused. Contrary to popular belief, a substance does not need to be illegal in order to be abused. Some substances such as alcohol, prescription drugs and solvents can be purchased legally and widely available and yet these items can be used as well as easily abused. Anything that has an addictive effect can be exploited.
The most obvious sign of substance abuse, regardless of the type, is the individual’s sudden change in behavior. There may be an increase or loss of appetite or inexplicable weight gain or loss. One strong indication is the individual’s consistent attempt to avoid personal meetings and conversations with other people. Behavior may become erratic with possible mood swings. With any type of substance abuse, it is also common to find that the individual tends to talk with little sense as well as having slurred speech. Other strong signs of substance abuse include seeing paraphernalia such as unusually strong lighters, syringes, broken glass or a collection of cans or bottles. Unexplainable scabs or needle marks are also a sign of concern.
Individuals should always be aware with any physical, emotional or even mental changes that they see. Those previously mentioned are not all clear drug abuse signs on their own. However, prolonged or an accumulated number of those signs are a clear indication that the advice and services of an addiction specialist be taken. It is the safest and most effective way of saving a person’s life.
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