Drug addiction is a disease of denial. The psychological effects of drug dependence are self-reinforcing --- the addict seeks solace in drug use, which, in turn, compounds any pre-existing problems in his life. External pressures and emotional turmoil amplify as the devastating effects of addiction destroy health, social relationships and career opportunities. In an effort to ward off the emotional suffering brought on by this decline, the addict may use even greater amounts of drugs.
Sometimes an intervention by those who care can truly make a difference in an addict's life. Knowledge of the behavioral symptoms of drug addiction may help.
Decreased Work Performance
Addiction takes a toll on a person's ability to perform tasks that are expected of her. This can apply to a student's performance at school or an executive's ability to manage a company, according to Helpguide.org. Addicts can be affected by intoxication during work hours or by the recovery time necessary to feel normal after a drug binge. A person hung over from drug use may be late or not show up for work at all. She may appear slower, mentally and physically, or need frequent trips to the washroom in order to cope with the symptoms of drug withdrawal.
Financial Problems
Drug addiction impacts a person's wallet due to the cost of the drugs themselves. It also impairs the addict's ability to perform his job and make money. A person who is suddenly facing uncharacteristic economic hardships may be suffering from the repercussions of a drug problem. MayoClinic.com explains that addicts frequently spend money on drugs even if they cannot afford them.
Changes in Appearance
Drugs take a toll on health that may be reflected in the physical appearance over time, but behavioral changes may affect the appearance even sooner. An addict may not exhibit a normal degree of concern regarding personal hygiene, and changes in grooming or apparel may be a reflection of addiction.
Secrecy
Addicts seek to hide their behavior from others for several reasons. Shame can be a factor, as addiction is understandably looked down upon in society. Another factor that instigates secrecy on the part of the addict is the awareness that her behavior may prompt others to try to persuade her to seek help. For those in the throes of addiction, this is undesirable, as the disease often must destroy their lives to an extreme degree before they will want to change.
An article by Lance P. Longo, M.D., and colleagues, published in "American Family Physician," notes that addicts resort to secrecy and lies even when relating to their doctors so that they can continue to receive prescriptions for the drugs that feed their addiction.
