Symptoms of substance use disorder may include5 :
- Drop in attendance and performance at work or school
- Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities)
- Using substances in physically hazardous situations such as while driving or operating a machine
- Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Unexplained change in personality or attitude
- Sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts
- Periods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation, or giddiness
- Lack of motivation
- Appearing fearful, anxious, or paranoid, with no reason
- Bloodshot eyes and abnormally sized pupils
- Sudden weight loss or weight gain
- Deterioration of physical appearance
- Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing
- Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination
- Sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies
- Legal problems related to substance use
- Unexplained need for money or financial problems
- Using substances even though it causes problems in relationships
People begin taking drugs to feel good (‘‘high’’), to relieve stress, to improve performance, out of curiosity, and even due to peer pressure.1
Drug addiction is preventable. Drug education and prevention efforts aimed at children and adolescents and involving families, schools, communities and media can be effective in reducing drug misuse.1
The intervention of concerned loved ones like friends and family often prompts treatment. A health professional can conduct a formal assessment of symptoms to see if a substance use disorder exists.1 Because addiction affects many aspects of a person’s life, multiple types of treatment are often required. Treatments may include1 :
- Medication, used to control drug cravings and relieve severe symptoms of withdrawal
- Sober houses (highly controlled, drug-free environments)
- Individual or group therapy like Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous or Al-Anon or Nar-Anon Family Groups for family members of those suffering from addiction