Overview

Drug Addiction

If you think you or a loved one might have a problem with drug or substance abuse, it’s time to take a closer look at the signs and symptoms. An honest assessment of your personal situation can help you determine if a substance has taken control of your life—so you can get the help you need. Warning signs of drug addiction may include:

Physical signs:

• Loss of appetite, increase in appetite, change in eating habits, unexplained weight loss or gain
• Tremors, slurred speech, slowed or staggering walk, poor physical coordination
• Inability to sleep, awake at unusual times, unusual laziness
• Bloodshot, watery eyes; pupils larger or smaller than usual; blank stare
• Smell of substance on breath, body or clothes
• Runny nose or hacking cough
• Needle marks on lower arm, leg or bottom of feet
• Nausea, vomiting or excessive sweating
• Unusual smells on breath, body or clothing

Behavioral signs:

• Change in overall attitude/personality with no other identifiable cause, such as difficulty in paying attention, forgetfulness, moodiness, irritability or nervousness, silliness or giddiness
• Change in friends, new hangouts, sudden avoidance of old friends, avoids talking about new friends, friends are known drug users
• Change in activities or hobbies
• Drop in grades at school or performance at work, skips or is late for school or work
• Excessive need for privacy, unreachable
• Extreme hyperactivity, excessively talkative
• Secretive or suspicious behavior, paranoia
• Car accidents
• Chronic dishonesty
• Unexplained need for money, stealing money or items
• Deterioration of physical appearance and personal grooming habits
• Possession of drug paraphernalia