Substance abuse is a problem that can lead to serious and permanent physical and mental illness.
Due to the fact that substance abuse is frowned down upon, many people will try and hide their drug use. However, as a loved one, you may be able to see the signs of someone using drugs. The key word in this whole process is change. Once you begin to see physical, emotional, personality and behavioural changes, it may be possible that the person is abusing a substance.
However, it is important to note that they may be displaying signs and symptoms of another disease before sending them to a drug rehab centre. Being very careful and sensitive to the issue will help you understand what your loved one is going through and begin the road towards addiction recovery.
Below, the signs and symptoms have been divided into physical ones and behavioural ones. This will help you assess if the combination of changes you are seeing are as a result of drug use or as a result of a phase in a person’s life.
Physical signs include a loss of appetite or an increase in the appetite. This change in eating habits is usually one of the first signs that may be noticed. Another sign would be cold, sweaty and shaking hands as well as red, watery eyes with larger or smaller than usual pupils. These effects can be as a result of substance abuse.
An unusual smell on the person’s breath, body or clothes may indicate that they have been smoking or drinking illegal substances. Another big sign could be needle marks on lower arms, legs or at the bottom of their feet. Also, a sudden peak in hyperactivity or a drop in activity levels can be a sign of substance abuse.
Some of the behavioural signs of substance abuse include a change in the person’s hygiene and desire to take care of their appearances. Also, a change in general personality and chronic lying when asked about anything can also indicate substance abuse.
A loss of interest in hobbies or activities they used to love, a sudden drop in school grades or work performance as well as difficulty paying attention are some of the major signs of potential substance abuse.
It is important that once you see some of these signs in a loved one to be very careful about how you handle the situation and start taking the steps towards drug rehab.
Speak to a qualified professional counsellor if you are unsure of the direction to take in dealing with an addicted family member or friend.