Signs & Symptoms of Drug Addiction

Even if you don't personally know a drug addict, chances are you've seen one before. Their symptoms are generally easy to spot and incite a range of emotions in the sober observer. Because of the danger of drug addiction, knowing the signs and symptoms can be a lifesaver to you and the addict.

Drug Abuse

• The excessive and repeated use of chemical substances is known as drug abuse (substance abuse). These chemical substances (drugs) can be obtained illicitly off the streets or prescribed by a physician. Prescriptions are usually obtained by the addict for self-gratification instead of as treatment for medical issues.

Physical Signs

• Though the type of drug abused often determines the symptoms, the signs tend to be closely related. A drug addict generally has periods of oversleeping or insomnia; a drop or gain in weight; increased energy and restlessness (most prevalent in stimulants); nasal or sinus problems (snorted drugs); persistent coughing (smoked drugs); oral problems (most common in methamphetamines); slow speech and reaction time; and disorientation (especially with heroin); and sudden changes in clothing style (wearing clothes that cover track marks).

Mental/Emotional

• Drug abuse affects the mind as well. The addict is always in search of his next high, so he can achieve the rush the drug provides. This chase distorts his thinking and how he reacts to things. He may have periods of talkativeness and constant energy; mood swings (hostility and irritability); an uncaring attitude; blank expressions and unresponsiveness; and hallucinations (hearing, seeing, smelling and feeling what's not present). He often develops a penchant for violence--it doesn't take much to set him off.

Teenagers

• Drug abuse affects a wide range of people, including teenagers. Many teens exhibit the normal signs of teen angst: oversleeping, argumentativeness and a lack of respect for boundaries. However, when a teen is addicted to drugs, her behavior changes significantly. She'll become isolated or change her friends to suit her new lifestyle; develop trouble with school (poor performance and getting into fights); lie and steal to support her habit, become incessantly hyped; or oversleep a lot.

Denial

• Though the signs and symptoms of drug addiction are apparent, the abuser tends to deny them. He doesn't think he has a problem, though everyone else sees it clearly. He resents anyone who tries to intervene and views all concerned parties as the enemy. For this reason, domestic violence and divorce are common consequences of drug addiction.

Support

• The drug addict needs help. Though seeking professional help is one of the first steps in addiction recovery, having a solid support system is key as well. Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous are two of the most popular and respected support groups available. For families coping with alcohol abuse, Al-Anon (see References) is a good place to start.