How to Identify Substance Abuse

Everyone goes through a rough patch in life, but if someone you care about seems to be in an extended slump or downward spiral matched with strange personality and behavior changes, he may be dealing with a substance abuse problem as well. While ultimately a licensed addiction specialist or medical professional should diagnose someone with a substance abuse problem, you can identify the accompanying signs and symptoms by simply spending time with him and paying attention.

Instructions

• 1

  Look for physical signs of substance abuse, such as frequent red eyes, staggering, slurred speech, seeming "out of it," shaking or sweating excessively. Look for needle marks, chronic unexplained nosebleeds and changes in sleep patterns. Note if you smell chemicals, smoke or alcohol. Check for sudden unexplained weight loss or weight gain. Some drug addictions also cause tooth decay.

• 2

  Look for behavioral signs of substance abuse. Pay attention, especially, to major changes in the person's personality and attitude about life. Watch to see if your loved one starts lying or stealing, loses interest in his hobbies or starts hanging out with new friends. Note unusual changes in his energy level or attention span.

• 3

  Look for the mental and psychological signs of substance abuse. Be on the look-out for depression, memory problems and paranoia. Watch for decreases in motivation and self-esteem or increases in anger and moodiness. On the flip side, be aware that some people with substance abuse problems appear suddenly happier, more talkative and even giddy at times.

• 4

  Look for unusual life changes such as decreased school or work performance, impulsive or irrational decision making, quitting sports teams or giving up favorite hobbies. Notice if a usually punctual and responsible person starts being late and missing appointments. Look around the home to see if large, valuable items that a person could sell for drugs regularly go missing.

• 5

  Confront the person and ask him to seek evaluation and treatment from a licensed addiction specialist. If you suspect substance abuse in your child, schedule an appointment with a doctor or therapist and ask them to help you identify if a substance abuse problem exists.