Drug abuse occurs when someone becomes dependent on a medication or a street drug. Different things lead to drug addition, such as a physical dependence on the drug, problems coping with stressors in life or mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Physical changes and disruptions in behavior can be signs of drug use and abuse.
Loss of Control
According to Narconon, persons who are abusing experience loss of control over how they may respond to a particular drug. For example, they may be able to stop drinking on one occasion after one drink, but the next day, they may not be able to stop. Other signs they may be losing control include no longer showing concern over their appearance. They might not be sleeping regularly and could show a sudden change in appetite. They might experience mood swings, angry outbursts or changes in personality.
Preoccupation and Mental Changes
An abuser may spend a lot of time thinking about the drug. She may be abnormally preoccupied about her excessive use, including how she is going to obtain the drug and the next time she will use it.
According to HelpGuide.org, an abuser may have personality changes. Some examples include a change in attitude or sudden mood swings. Users may experience a lack of interest in activities they usually enjoy and may be irritable or hyperactive.
Negative Consequences and Behavioral Changes
Although a person experiences negative consequences related to drug use, he continues to use it. For example, he may have lost his job because of a decline in job performance. He may have gotten into a car accident or contracted a disease while under the influence. Some users may have an unexplained need for money and begin stealing. They may be secretive and have sudden changes in friends. There also may be unexplained fights, or they may get into legal trouble.
Physical Symptoms and Tolerance
One who is abusing drugs may have red eyes, dilated pupils and appear "spaced out." He might have a hacking cough or be pale or flushed. He might have cold, clammy hands or a runny nose and experience tremors.
According to HelpGuide.org, a person who has developed a tolerance to the drug needs more of it to experience the effects. The user also will experience withdrawal symptoms when she is not under the influence of the drug.
