Drug and alcohol abuse is a problem facing all ages, leading to serious physical and mental health problems. There is a fine line between abuse and addiction, and it is important to recognize the symptoms of abuse, in order to ask for help or provide help before it grows into addiction. General symptoms of drug abuse are the same regardless of substance, but the particular symptoms vary depending on the type of drug. Mayo Clinic website offers a list of most commonly used drugs and their specific symptoms.
Behavioral Signs of Drug Abuse
A person who abuses drugs starts having problems in relationships, with partner, family, friends or colleagues, starts neglecting responsibilities at school, work or home. Other symptoms include sudden financial problems, engagement in secretive or suspicious behaviors, frequently getting into trouble, risky behavior, such as using dirty needles, unprotected sex, or driving under the influence.
Physical Signs of Drug Abuse
Physical symptoms include bloodshot eyes, dilated or constricted pupils, shivers, slurred speech, impaired coordination, changes in sleep patterns, sudden weight loss or weight gain, worsening of physical appearance, unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing.
Psychological Signs of Drug Abuse
People who abuse drugs have unexplained change in personality or attitude, sudden mood swings, irritability or angry outbursts, periods of unusual hyperactivity, or lack of motivation. They also appear fearful, anxious, or paranoid with no particular reason.
Symptoms of Drug Abuse in Teenagers
Parents of teenagers need to recognize the warnings signs of substance abuse and distinguish them from behavioral changes and problems, common for teenagers. If they are abusing drugs, teenagers suffer from drastic changes in behavior and in relationships with family and friends, have serious problems at school, physical health issues, lack of energy and motivation, or neglected appearance. They also become extremely secretive about friends, possessions, and activities, locking doors, avoiding eye contact, using incense or air fresheners to hide the smell of drugs, using eye drops to mask bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils. Other warning signs include need for money without a reasonable explanation, missing money, valuables, or prescriptions from home.
Symptoms of Prescription Drug Abuse
Prescription drugs can become dangerous if abused, and the symptoms depend on the particular drug. When excessively used, opioid painkillers such as OxyContin and Vicodin can cause constipation, depression, low blood pressure, slower breathing and confusion. Sedatives and tranquilizers, such as diazepam -- Valium and lorazepam -- Ativan, can cause drowsiness, confusion, unsteady gait, poor judgment, involuntary movement of the eyeball. Stimulants, such as methylphenidate -- Ritalin, used to treat ADHD and sleep disorders, can cause weight loss, irritability, insomnia, high blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat.
Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse
People who abuse alcohol regularly drink more than they intended to, feel ashamed about their drinking, lie or hide drinking habits, have friends or family members who are worried about their drinking. They also tend to forget what they did while drinking, and need to drink in order to relax or feel better. They may have many of the same symptoms as people who suffer from alcoholism, but without physical withdrawal symptoms when not drinking. Still, alcohol abuse can cause serious problems and people may need help to quit.
