Signs Of Drug Addiction & How To Get Help
- May 29, 2023
- Prosperity Haven
- Addiction Treatment
Drug addiction doesn’t always look exactly the same for everyone. Maybe you have a family member who has been a little more withdrawn lately, or perhaps there’s a close friend in your life experiencing financial issues. These aren’t always signs of drug abuse — but they can be. This is why it is so important to actually sit down and learn about the signs of addiction. Just knowing what to look for could help save a life.
So, what are the signs of a drug addict? Do the signs vary based on the types of drugs being used? Is it easy to notice the signs of an addict? Finally, is there a place where you can get help for drug addiction for yourself or someone you care about?
In today’s guide, we will answer all of these questions and more. To help you identify potential causes of addiction, we will break down the signs and symptoms based on common forms of drug abuse:
Signs Of Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine is highly addictive and, despite its links to party culture, it has ruined hundreds of thousands of lives in the United States. The physical signs of a cocaine addict will vary based on a few different factors, including how the drug is used and the form that it takes. For example, there are a few variations in how coke addicts and crack addicts manifest certain signs and symptoms. In any case, here are some of the most common signs of cocaine addiction:
Physical Signs of Cocaine Addiction
- Increased heart rate
- Damage to nasal passages
- Dilated pupils
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chronic runny nose
- Sore throat
- Persistent cough
Behavioral Signs of Cocaine Addiction
- Rapid speech patterns
- Shaking or unexpectedly fast movements
- Anxiety
- Euphoria
- Mood swings
- Increased energy
- Proclivity for risky behaviors
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
- Irritability
Signs Of Opioid Addiction
Opioids are extremely addictive prescription medications and synthetic drugs that can treat pain. They are the main cause of painkiller addiction and prescription drug addiction in the United States. The opiate addiction crisis has even become a major talking point in the media, as millions of people continue to struggle with addiction to drugs like oxycodone, fentanyl, and heroin. While some opioids can only be obtained through illicit means, others can be prescribed after surgery or similarly invasive treatment. Here are some of the most common signs of opioid addiction to look for:
Physical Signs of Opioid Addiction
- Unexpected weight loss
- Diarrhea or intestinal problems
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Track marks (most common with heroin)
Behavioral Signs of Opioid Addiction
- Withdrawal from social gatherings
- Lying about drug use
- Stealing money or other possessions
- Slurred speech
- Doctor shopping
- Forging prescriptions
- Lack of coordination
Signs of Meth Addiction
Crystal meth and other forms of methamphetamine can have severe effects on the mind and body. Not only does meth often lead to debilitating addiction, but it can also permanently impair brain function and cause lasting physical damage. Meth can be used in several different forms, though it is most often smoked using a glass pipe or similar smoking apparatus. Here are just a few signs to look out for if you suspect someone you love of being a meth addict:
Physical Signs of Meth Addiction
- Substantial weight loss
- Rapid heart rate
- “Meth mouth”
- Respiratory problems
- Sallow complexion
- Mouth sores
- Sagging skin
Behavioral Signs of Meth Addiction
- Insomnia
- Increased sexual activity
- Aggression that may lead to violence
- Paranoia
- Bizarre speech patterns
- Legal problems
- Borrowing or stealing money
- Preoccupation with acquiring meth
Signs Of Heroin Addiction
Heroin is a type of opioid that has been around for nearly two centuries. Originally derived from the poppy plant, heroin is a semi-synthetic drug that slows down the functions of the brain and nervous system. Heroin addicts typically inject the drug intravenously, which can cause some unique physical symptoms compared to most other kinds of opioids. For example, there is a higher prevalence of drug paraphernalia among heroin users than among people who are addicted to pills. In any case, here are the signs and symptoms to watch for:
Physical Signs of Heroin Addiction
- Weight loss
- Dry mouth
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Nausea and vomiting
- Scabs and sores (usually on the arms)
- Slow breathing
- Lowered heart rate
- Pupil constriction
Behavioral Signs of Heroin Addiction
- Presence of syringes and needles
- Scratching at the skin
- Lying about drug use
- Social withdrawal
- Slowed speech
Signs Of Benzo Addiction
Benzo, short for Benzodiazepine, is a class of drugs most often used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. While benzos are not always treated as a “dangerous” drug, they can easily be abused. Both Valium and Xanax addiction affect thousands of Americans every day, and since these can be obtained through legitimate prescriptions, it may be harder to detect that someone has become addicted. Here are some of the most common signs of a Benzo addiction:
Physical Signs of Benzo Addiction
- Muscle weakness
- Vertigo
- Difficulty maintaining balance
- Headaches or migraines
- Fainting or losing consciousness
- Blurred vision
- Changes in eating and sleeping patterns
Behavioral Signs of Benzo Addiction
- Doctor shopping
- Taking increasingly high doses
- Forging prescriptions
- Preferring solitude and withdrawing from social gatherings
- Failure to meet personal or professional obligations
- Poor memory
- Increased confusion in thought or speech
- Slowed thinking
- Slowed reaction time
Signs Of Adderall Addiction
Signs of a pill addiction are not always easy to see. After all, someone can easily hide pills and take them without others noticing. However, when it comes to Adderall, there are various signs and symptoms that may point to substance abuse. And while Adderall is primarily prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, it has become increasingly popular (particularly among college students) as a drug of choice for improving focus and attention. Here are some of the signs you can expect from an Adderall addict:
Physical Signs of Adderall Addiction
- Dry mouth
- Nausea and vomiting
- Restlessness in the feet, legs, or hands
- Crushing or snorting the drug
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
Behavioral Signs of Adderall Addiction
- Temporary bouts of high energy and sociability
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Doctor shopping
- Spending a lot of time securing Adderall
How To Get Help For A Drug Addiction In Ohio
Even when you can identify the physical or behavioral signs of drug addiction, it does not mean that you can solve the problem on your own. Addiction requires the help of trained professionals. It also requires a great deal of sympathy. Just because you believe that someone in your life may be abusing drugs does not mean that you should pass judgment. Instead, offer your support and, if possible, reach out to a rehab center to help start the recovery process.
Fortunately, if you’re looking for substance abuse treatment in Ohio, Prosperity Haven is just a phone call away. Our inpatient drug rehab is located in Chardon, Ohio, and offers a wide range of treatments and services, including personalized detox, therapy, dual diagnosis treatment, and more. We have a long history of helping people achieve sobriety, even when they had lost all hope. So, if you want to help yourself or someone close to you beat addiction for good, reach out to us today and take the first step toward recovery.
YOUR NEW BEGINNING
STARTS HERE
Take the First Step and Reach Out Today
