The topic of drug use can be difficult to broach among family and friends, but it is important. Drug use is prevalent among today’s society, with one in ten Americans struggling with symptoms of active drug or alcohol addiction.
If you suspect your loved one is battling addiction, it will benefit them and you to understand the symptoms of drug use. Understanding the symptoms of drug use can be crucial when it comes to getting necessary treatment before the effects of drug use become devastating.
How Can I Tell My Friend Is On Drugs?
If you suspect your friend is on drugs, the first thing to keep in mind is that you should try to keep an open mind. Remember that many people with drug use are able to overcome their substance use problems before serious harm incurs. Knowing how to recognize the common symptoms of drug use is important if you want to help.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Drug Use?
The symptoms of drug use are important to know. They can change the way a person acts, looks and feels. There are many changes that occur within the body that impact a person’s emotions and behavior. Thankfully, there are several symptoms of drug use that you can watch out for to determine if your friend is on drugs.
Physical Symptoms of Drug Use
Several physical symptoms of drug use are common among those who use them:
- Sudden weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Bloodshot eyes
- Constricted pupils
- Poor hygiene and personal care
- Change in complexion,
- Change in complexion, including jaundice, acne, pale skin or marks on skin
Psychological Symptoms of Drug Use
Some symptoms of drug use can be psychological and can include:
- Lack of confidence or self-esteem
- Poor motivation
- Failure to set or follow through with goals
- Anxiety and depression
- Uneasiness
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Unpredictable temperament
Behavioral Symptoms of Drug Use
Some symptoms of drug use are behavioral and can include:
- Neglect of responsibilities or obligations at home, school or work
- Financial distress, such as borrowing money or selling belongings without any clear explanation
- Secretive behavior
- Poor decision making
- Increased conflict
- Trouble with the law, including theft
- Preoccupation with obtaining and using substances
How Can I Get My Friend Help With Their Drug Addiction?
First, it is important to understand that you can’t force your friend to stop using drugs, but you might be able to help still. Begin by encouraging your friend to avoid places they might normally take drugs and recommend other activities.
You can also remind your friend of any potential dangers associated with using drugs and encourage them to find a place they can get help for their drug use problem, while telling them that no matter what happens, you are around to talk to and to support them.
It can be stressful worrying about your friend’s drug use and you might feel uncertain about how to address the problem. It can be hard to communicate your concern and you might be worried it could lead to conflict. Despite this, it is important to take the right steps and create an intervention plan. Your intervention plan can include talking to a professional, inviting close family and friends and planning and practicing what you might say and options your friend might need to pursue.
If you observe drug use symptoms in your friend, do your best to get help for them or to encourage them to get help. My Recovery Source is ready and available to help your friend to find true help for their drug use problem, regardless of location, personal situation, finances and background. Reach out to us today for free personalized recommendations for your loved one.
