Drug abuse can happen to anyone, at any given time. It may be difficult to accept, but drug addiction begins with a simple use of an experimental drug in social gatherings. While it’s true that any substance can be assiociated with abuse, there are some that can be more addictive. Recognizing signs of early addiction in a friend or a loved one is vital to prevent any harm to their personal life, work, health, or education.
If you are aware that your loved one or friend is using a specific drug, the general signs of addiction you should be looking for are:
• The physical appearance of the person has changed because of diminished interest in grooming and wearing clean clothes
• Disinterested in work, poor performance, and exhaustion
• More intent on having privacy
• Borrowing money and spending more money than the person normally does
• Declining grades and difficulties in studying
• Dramatic relationship changes
• Not prompt in paying bills
• Weight loss due to inappetence
• Being defensive when being inquired about drug abuse
• Poor skin tone
• Bloodshot eyes
Drug Abuse Signs Linked to Certain Drugs
There are also specific signs of substance abuse connected to certain drugs. Below are some signs of drug abuse your co-worker, friend, or family member:
1. Cannabis
• Euphoria
• Heightened auditory and visual perceptions
• Forgetful
• Uncoordinated
• Increase in appetite
• Slow reactions
• Suspicious and paranoid
• Bloodshot eyes
• Mellow and relaxed
• Droopy eyelids
2. CNS Depressants (Benzodiazepines and Barbiturates)
• Depression
• Uninhibited behavior
• Dizziness
• Issues on balance
• Blurred vision
• Confusion
• Nystagmus (involuntary eye movements)
3. 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