How to Recognize Signs of Substance Abuse

Substance abuse can happen to anyone--young, middle-aged or elderly--regardless of their socioeconomic status. Sometimes it will take only one time to get the user "hooked" on the drug, because the drug changes the chemical balance of the brain aimed at receptors which in turn release endorphins, giving the user a very pleasurable experience, or "high." The brain may come to rely on the drug in order to function--this is addiction. The difficult part is the withdrawal.

Instructions

• 1

  Note any changes in personality, choice of friends, routine, sleeping habits or personal appearance. Talking constantly, withdrawing from society, paranoia, anger, pacing, sleeplessness or irritability are signs of substance abuse as well as depression.

• 2

  Look for secretiveness while talking on the phone and expressing a need to give them "space." Listen for strangers calling at all hours of the day and night.

• 3

  Be watchful of sudden mood swings. This may be a sign of addiction withdrawal or depression--or both--and needs to be addressed as soon as possible.

• 4

  Look for changes in facial complexion and mannerisms such as biting down hard on their jaw and the appearance of acne all over the face. Notice any picking at any part of the body; often, the drug abuser feels a crawling sensation over his entire body and he has to scratch.

• 5

  Note any unexplained weight loss, red whites of the eyes or a glazed stare. Nervousness, malaise, loss of appetite, violent behavior, nausea, cold sweats, dilated pupils and damp, clammy hands may all be signs of substance abuse.

• 6

  Observe school-age children. Stealing money, a drop in grades, playing truant and getting into trouble at school, hanging with the wrong crowd, being abusive towards family--these are all signs of drug abuse or depression--or both.