Drug abuse is a serious problem that puts a user's health at risk. A person may start taking a drug for the euphoric feeling or to escape from problems, such as depression. But the drugs cause changes to the brain, leading people to use more of the drug to get the same high as before. Friends and family may notice abnormal behaviors in a drug abuser.
Secrecy
People who abuse drugs can become more secretive. For example, the Partnership for a Drug-Free America points out that drug abusers hide their usage of drugs, as well as their supply of the drugs. Friends and family might find their alcohol or prescription drugs missing if those substances are the drugs of choice for the user. The abusers will lie or cover up their drug use, avoiding eye contact when talking to other people. Helpguide.org notes that drug abusers may have secretive behavior, such as always locking the door or having secretive phone calls. Drug abusers may disappear for periods at a time.
Neglect of Responsibilities
Drug abusers tend to put their drug use above their responsibilities. For example, Helpguide.org explains that drug abusers may miss school or work often. The drugs can also interfere with their work or school performance, leading to unfulfilled assignments that can place their position at work or school in jeopardy. The Partnership for a Drug-Free America adds that family or friends may hear complaints from teachers or co-workers about the drug abuser's change in performance. The drug abusers may come into school or work intoxicated. Instead of fulfilling their obligations, the drug abusers may go out every night, possibly to use drugs.
Change in Social Crowd
People who use drugs may suddenly change who they associate with, which may increase their access to the drug. For example, drug abusers may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, such as playing a sport. Instead, the drug abusers may start hanging out in new places where drug use occurs. Helpguide.org explains that the drug abusers may change their friends and start spending time with other people who use drugs. The Partnership for a Drug-Free America adds that the drug abusers may have a change in appearance, such as looking disheveled and unkempt, and may have unusual smells, such as the smell of marijuana on their clothes.
Need for Money
Helpguide.org points out that people who abuse drugs may start asking for money, but not explain what they need the money for. For example, a drug abuser may tell his friends and family that he has a serious financial problem, but will not give the details of what happened. Drug abusers may borrow money from their loved ones, or if no one will lend them any, they may steal the money. The Partnership for a Drug-Free America notes that people close to drug abusers may notice that valuables are missing.
Legal Problems
Drug abusers can have problems with the law, either from the actual drug use or behaviors stemming from the drug abuse. For example, Helpguide.org points out that a drug abuser may participate in illegal activities, such as theft, selling of drugs or buying of drugs. The Partnership for a Drug-Free America adds that drug abusers can become hyper-aggressive, which can lead to fights or accidents that get the authorities involved.
