Signs of Drug Addiction
Do you know the signs of drug addiction? Here are some signs that you should watch for.
- You crave the drug regularly. This can be daily or several times within the day.
- You cannot stop using the drug no matter how hard you try.
- You feel compelled to keep a supply stashed away, where you can reach it easily and quickly.
- You buy drugs even when you can’t afford it.
- You lie, cheat, or steal just to gain access to the drug—and all three are behaviors you normally would not do.
- You drive or do other dangerous activities while you’re under drug influence.
- You focus more and more energy and time on getting and then using the drug.
These are only a few signs of drug addiction, however. There are naturally other symptoms that are drug specific. For instance:
Signs of Drug Addiction - Marijuana
Signs of drug addiction and dependence include:
- poor memory
- sharper sense of seeing, hearing, and tasting
- red eyes
- poor coordination
- difficulty in concentrating
- increased appetite
- slower reaction time
- increased heart rate and blood pressure
Benzodiazepines and Barbiturates
These drugs are depressants. Signs of abuse and dependence include:
- confusion
- memory damage
- lack of coordination
- slurring of speech
- slower breathing
- dizziness
- depression
- constant sleepiness
Signs of Drug Addiction for Cocaine, Methamphetamine, and Other Stimulants
These drugs are stimulants and are very addictive. Signs of abuse and dependence include:
- Rapid Speech
- Euphoria
- Decreased Appetite
- Restlessness
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Weight Loss
- Paranoia
- Increased body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate
- Nasal congestion and damage to the nose (if snorting the drug)
Hallucinogens
The symptoms vary depending on which drug is being abused, the most common being PCP and LSD. Some common signs of use/abuse are:
- Hallucinations
- Permanent changes in mental perception
- Rapid heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Tremors
- Flashbacks, which can occur months, weeks, or even years after use
- Panic
- Paranoia
- Aggressive or violent behavior
If you have these signs of drug addiction or if you believe someone’s drug use is getting out of hand, get help. Drug dependence is dangerous short-term and deadly long-term. If you think an intervention is needed, do it fast and do it correctly.
Remember that addictions don’t go away on their own. You cannot talk yourself ors omeone out of it, or wish it away. Rehabilitation is a process that takes time, patience, and careful planning. The sooner you seek help from drug rehab facilities or a medical provider, the better.