Most people do not begin their relationship to drugs with the intent to become addicted. Some individuals begin with prescription medications for chronic pain. Other drug addictions start with casual or social use. Not everyone who experiments becomes an addict; however, for those who do the physical, emotional and psychological attachments to the drugs can lead to a bevy of behavioral changes and adverse effects.
Irritability
A drug-addicted individual needs increasingly larger doses of the drug to get high as the body adjusts to its effects. Often, the person cannot feel good or normal without the drugs, which makes it difficult to abstain from using. Upon stopping drug use, an addicted person may experience intense cravings that cause physical illness. These feelings of illness may bring about behavioral changes, such as irritability. The Mayo Clinic notes a drug addict often feels he has to use the drug daily or several times a day.
Spending Money
Due to the intense desire and physical need for drugs, a drug addict may spend frivolously, allocating all or much of his money to drugs. This behavior may be unusual for those who were once financially responsible, an obvious warning sign to friends and family. In addition, addicts may request money without reasonable explanations.
Unusual or Dangerous Actions
Other behavior signs of drug addiction include dangerous or out-of-character conduct. Addicts may resort to stealing or selling once-cherished items to support a habit. In addition, an addict may drive while under the influence, become lethargic and disinterested in hobbies or activities and lose touch with former friends and family members. The HelpGuide website reports drug addiction affects moods, causing individuals to behave excitedly or aggressively. Someone who is under the influence of drugs may become extremely talkative, paranoid or even violent. Atypical behaviors are a good indicator of drug abuse. While it may be difficult to detect drug-use among teenagers, due to normal growth and mood swings, parents can educate themselves (see Resources).
