Drug Abuse & Warning Signs

When people hear the words "drug abuse," they may think of illegal street drugs such as cocaine and heroin. However, drug abuse can include prescription drugs as well. According to Dr. Jeanne Segal, psychologist and managing editor of HelpGuide.org, drug abuse "involves the repeated and excessive use of chemical substances to achieve a certain effect." Some drugs speed the bodily functions up, while others slow them down. It is important to recognize the symptoms of drug abuse to help your loved one seek treatment before his drug abuse ruins his life.

Physical Symptoms

Drugs will affect both the brain and body, so some of the first signs you may notice will be physical. The symptoms will vary depending on the drug of choice. These symptoms include restlessness, sudden bursts of energy and insomnia, all of which are seen when stimulants such as cocaine are used. These can be followed by times of excessive sleep, along with sudden weight changes (loss or gain) and constant nosebleeds from snorting. According to the American Council for Drug Addiction, a drug abuser may also experience a change in appetite, needle marks in his arms, feet or legs and tremors when he is experiencing withdrawal symptoms and needs another high. One of the most obvious symptoms is dental problems such as tooth decay and loss, especially with the use of methamphetamines.

Behavioral Signs

Because drugs affect the brain, behavioral symptoms are another indication of drug abuse. These include changes in activities, interests and friends; sudden disinterest in family and a loss of motivation. She may also display a need for privacy, become overly secretive or suddenly begin throwing temper tantrums. Her mood may change from upbeat and cheerful to moody and irritated. Additionally, she may begin displaying an urgent need for money or begin stealing it. This behavior is often accompanied with chronic dishonesty.

Mental Symptopms

According to Dr. Segal, drugs can also affect a person mentally. These symptoms include paranoia, temporary psychosis and hallucinations, becoming delusional, and cycles of manic behavior (e.g. appearing unusually happy and talkative) followed by depressive episodes.

Signs of Teenage Drug Use

It is just as important to watch for symptoms of drug abuse in teens as in adults. The sooner you can get your teen treatment, the better his odds for a full recovery. As Dr. Segal states though, detecting the symptoms of drug abuse in teens can be challenging. This is due to his tendency to sleep excessively, argue unnecessarily and push for privacy.

What you can watch for is an unusual drop in his grades, prescription drugs belonging to you that are suddenly disappearing quickly or completely and nights when he is too wired to sleep or days when he sleeps for hours. If you notice any of these signs in your teen, have him tested to confirm your suspicions.