The Different Signs Of Drug Abuse

Regardless of gender, age, and race, anybody who uses illicit drugs will gradually experience different signs of drug abuse. The truth is, drug abuse can lead to crime, unhappy personal relationships, lost work productivity, and other related matters. Many people are not aware that their own friend, relative, or loved one is already suffering from these signs. Before anything gets worse, it is best to act right away. A person who shows different signs and symptoms of drug abuse must get the needed help. What are these signs? Read on and find out more.

According to statistics, illicit drugs are abused in almost every part of the world. In the United States alone, cocaine is considered as one of the most available drugs in college and high school campuses. In this connection, thousands of Americans die every year due to cocaine-related complications. On the other hand, prescription drugs such as painkillers are also abused. Prescription drugs such as Oxycodone and Hydrocodone are widely abused by teenagers, to be specific. Yes, these drugs are of different types, however their side effects are dangerous.

Various Signs of Drug Abuse

Physical Signs

One of the possible signs of drug abuse is the change in physical appearance. A person who continuously abusing illicit drugs may experience sudden weight loss or weight gain. These drugs have the ability to suppress a person's appetite. Methamphetamine, for example, is abused by students and workers all over the world. This type of drug has the power to give an individual a rush of energy. However, medical researches show that this drug can increase a person's metabolism, that is why it can lead to unexplainable weight loss.

On the other hand, abusing drugs can lead to blood shot eyes and dilated pupils. People who are addicted to drugs may experience unusual skin color and changes in sleep patterns. Even without a history of epilepsy, an addict may suffer from seizures. When an individual shows some signs of sniffling and puffy face, he or she might be abusing drugs. Other physical signs include tremors, slurred speech, shakes, unstable coordination, as well as body odor issues.

Psychological Signs

Rapid mood swings are just one of the psychological signs that a person might experience if he or she is continuously abusing drugs. People who take prescription drugs beyond the recommended dosage may suffer from irritability, anxiety, unexplainable hyperactivity or agitation, or paranoia. Other psychological signs include lack of motivation and having a hard time to focus.

Behavioral Signs

The use of illicit drugs can lead to behavioral signs that can really affect the life of an individual. These signs are pretty alarming. For instance, people who abuse drugs may experience loss of interest in healthy activities, sports, and hobbies. This certain loss of interest is due to the fact that their attention has been turned to sustaining the need to use illicit drugs. These people usually receive complaints from teachers, friends, supervisors, co-workers, and even loved ones. In order to suffice their addiction, they usually borrow or steal money from friends or family members. People who are addicted to drugs usually get into trouble more often.

Another possible sign that a person is addicted to drugs is when he or she shows unexpected changes in grooming and clothing habits. Since his or her mind is affected by the chemicals found in illicit drugs, he or she won't be able to focus on doing the things that a normal person should.

Indeed, the use of illicit drugs can cause serious signs and symptoms. Whenever a person shows two or more of the signs mentioned above, asking for professional help is a necessity. Everyone must realize that these are serious issues. It is always beneficial that every person is knowledgeable about the different signs of drug abuse. It must be noted that when these signs are left untreated, it can lead to drug dependence. When this happens, more serious things may happen. In this connection, it is very important to seek the right help whenever someone you love has been showing different signs of drug abuse. Learning to recognize the different signs and symptoms can help you save the life of the people who matter to you.