Signs & Symptoms of Substance Abuse

People who are concerned that a loved one is struggling with substance abuse wonder what signs and symptoms to consider. The biggest impairment is that the family members and friends do not want to see the signs and symptoms to diagnose the addiction correctly. Find the strength to see the truth.

Dilated Pupils

• When people are using certain substances, the pupils become almost as large as the corneas, and they do not adjust to changes in light when the people are using many drugs.

Missing Items

• Most family members notice the disappearance of over-the-counter medications, prescriptions, alcoholic beverages, and other items containing alcoholic properties. Usually, the substance abuser will deny or deflect knowledge, even when confronted with the evidence.

Sleep Issues

• Unusual sleep patterns can develop for the substance abuser. Many stay awake during the night hours and then sleep during the day. Others stay awake and wired for days and then crash, unable to stay awake.

Slurred Speech

• Those close to the addict might notice changes in the way the addict speaks. Speech can be slurred, sounding as if the tongue is swollen, and the words are not completely clear.

Unexplained Absences

• The substance abuser cannot account for his time accurately. The explanation tends to be disjointed because of the lies to hide the addiction.

Unpredictable Responses

• The addict will react to everyday questions and conversations with abnormal responses, such as undue excitement, rage or sadness. The addict will often "storm out" of the room, leaving the family member feeling responsible for the addict's response.

New Friendships

• The addict seeks out new friends who are accepting of the drug use. These friendships often develop covertly and seem to "appear" suddenly to family members. These new friends often appear to have nothing in common with the addict other than addiction.