Facing the Reality: The Onset of Drug Abuse and Addiction

It’s important to know the signs of drug addiction. Drug abuse is a universal concern, and it can strike anyone at any moment. The journey into drug addiction often starts innocently with experimental use in social settings. While it’s true that any substance has the potential for abuse, some can be particularly insidious. Recognizing the early signs of addiction in a friend or loved one is not just essential; it’s a lifeline to safeguard their personal well-being, career, health, and education.

Addiction can silently affect anyone, weaving its web in various forms and stages. It might start as a seemingly innocent experiment with substances in social settings, but it can quickly spiral into a life-altering struggle. At Alteri Behavioral Health and Suboxone Clinic, we want to help you identify the early signs of addiction in yourself or your loved ones. Recognizing these signs is the first crucial step towards seeking help through Suboxone treatment. We have 3 offices conveniently located in Danville, Frankfort & Lexington, Kentucky to better serve our clients, Contact us now to get started on your path to recovery.

Discovering The Signs of Drug Addiction: Your Journey to Recovery Begins Here

Addiction often leaves its mark on multiple aspects of a person’s life. Here are some general signs of drug addiction to watch out for:

• Physical Appearance Changes: One of the most visible signs of addiction is a noticeable change in physical appearance. Individuals may lose interest in grooming and wearing clean clothes, leading to a disheveled appearance. Physical changes may include weight loss due to a decreased appetite, poor skin tone, and bloodshot eyes.
• Work-Related Issues: Addiction can significantly impact work performance, resulting in poor job performance, chronic exhaustion, and disinterest in one’s occupation.
• Increased Secrecy: People grappling with addiction may become more secretive, distancing themselves from their usual social circles.
• Financial Changes: Financial shifts are common in addiction, including borrowing money and spending more than usual. Addiction also leads to financial irresponsibility, including not paying bills.
• Academic Struggles: For students, addiction can lead to declining grades and difficulties in studying.
• Relationship Dynamics: Pay attention to dramatic changes in relationships, such as conflicts and isolation from loved ones.
• Defensiveness: Individuals addicted to drugs may become defensive when asked about their substance use, deflecting inquiries.

Drug Abuse Signs Linked to Certain Drugs

Different substances can manifest specific signs of abuse. Familiarize yourself with these substance-specific indicators:

Marijuana

• Euphoria
• Heightened auditory and visual perceptions
• Forgetful
• Uncoordinated
• Increase in appetite
• Slow reactions
• Suspicious and paranoid
• Bloodshot eyes
• Mellow and relaxed
• Droopy eyelids

CNS Depressants (Benzodiazepines and Barbiturates)

• Depression
• Uninhibited behavior
• Dizziness
• Issues on balance
• Blurred vision
• Confusion
• Nystagmus (involuntary eye movements)

Hallucinogens

• “Magic mushrooms”
o Trippy (quiet, panicked, or drowsy)
• LSD
o Hallucinations (visual and auditory)
o Impulsiveness
• PCP
o Doesn’t feel pain
o Doesn’t tolerant loud noises

Stimulants (Cocaine)

• Aggression
• Rambling, rapid speech
• Increased respiration
• Dilated pupils
• High energy
• Hostile
• Paranoid

Club drugs (GHB, ecstasy, ketamine)

• Poor coordination
• Elevated body temperature
• Slurred speech
• Clenched teeth
• Dizziness
• Excessive sweating

Opioids

• Mood swings
• Sedation
• Memory problems
• Failure to concentrate
• Lethargy
• Delayed reaction
• Slow digestion
• Constipation
• Flu-like symptoms
• Anxiety

Early Intervention is Essential

Recognizing the signs of drug use and addiction is the first step toward recovery. Alteri Behavioral Health and Suboxone Clinic is here to help you or your loved one embark on a journey to lasting recovery. We specialize in Suboxone treatment, a proven and effective path to breaking free from addiction. Reach out to us today and take that crucial step toward a healthier, addiction-free life.

Learn more about Narcotics Anonymous Here.