Recognizing Substance Abuse

Recognizing the signs of substance abuse can be challenging. Addicts and alcoholics are often good at hiding their behavior when it comes to using their drug of choice. In fact, substance abuse may often be mistaken for depression, anxiety or other mental or emotional disorders. Since substance abuse can take many forms and the user might be abusing several substances, it's important to get the advice or guidance of a medical professional if you suspect the problem is serious.

Instructions

• 1

  Look for drastic changes in mood or temperament. A substance abuser will typically become irritable, depressed and less concerned with their loved ones, especially when she is not using or in between binges or "benders." Mood swings with either great highs or lows are common.

• 2

  Notice lifestyle changes. Substance abuse requires the user to change his behavior in order to use the drug of choice. This might mean the person adopts new friends, frequents new places or is consistently late to work or shirking other responsibilities. When the person's daily routine seems affected or altered in a negative way, it's usually an indication of addiction. Activities usually revolve solely on getting and using the substance.

• 3

  Notice whether or not the user is willing to give up the substance. A common response for substance abusers is that they are able to give up the substance but that they don't want to or there is no reason to. If the person is not willing to give up the substance for the sake of a concerned parent, spouse or friend, it probably means he or she is dependent on that substance.

• 4

  Look for physical changes. Substance abuse often comes with drastic physical changes such as weight gain or loss, acne or persistent illness. Also, if the person is always tired, or, conversely, has excessive energy, it could be an indication of substance abuse. A neglected or disheveled appearance can also indicate a problem.

• 5

  Ask a doctor. If you think you know the substance abuser's drug of choice, ask a health care professional for more warning signs and symptoms. Different drugs will have different effects on the body and the person's behavior.