Substance abuse is a rising problem, causing severe physical and mental health issues. Keep reading to learn how to spot the warning signs of someone suffering from a substance abuse problem.

According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, at least 50% of people over 12 have tried an illicit substance at least once. Substance abuse has also accounted for almost one million deaths since 2000.

These numbers are astounding as substance abuse problems continue to rise in the United States and worldwide. However, you can educate yourself on the warning signs to help yourself or someone you know who is struggling with addiction.

At the Sal Rediscovery Center in Norwalk, California, Dr. Salisu Aikoye is an addiction treatment specialist who provides compassionate and customized treatment for all his patients. Dr. Salisu offers drug and alcohol addiction services when you’re concerned for yourself or others’ well-being.

 

Understanding substance abuse

Substance abuse is a disease that affects your behaviors and brain, typically resulting in the inability to control yourself around illicit or prescription drugs. It often starts with simply experimenting but often turns into a life-altering problem.

Both illegal substances, like cocaine or heroin, and prescription drugs, like opioids, can lead to addiction. You may become addicted to illicit drugs after you’ve struggled with prescription drug addiction.

When you have a substance abuse problem, you’ll do anything to get the high you desire, no matter how it affects your life. Substance abuse affects every aspect of your life, including work, personal relationships, and mental and physical health.

The longer you have a substance abuse problem, the more illicit substances you need to get the same high. You may be unable to go without the drug or substance without experiencing uncomfortable symptoms, usually due to withdrawal from the drug.

It may seem impossible, but you can recover from substance abuse and live a productive life every day. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of substance abuse is the best way to help yourself or someone you love from the dangers of addiction.

 

Physical warning signs

There are several warning signs that you can look out for when it comes to substance abuse. Physical symptoms are some of the most apparent characteristics of someone suffering from addiction.

It’s sometimes hard to distinguish physical symptoms of abuse from other illnesses until it becomes a pattern. Some of the physical warning signs of drug or alcohol abuse include the following:

  • Sudden changes in weight
  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Changes in pupil size
  • Slurred speech
  • Impaired coordination
  • Disrupted sleep patterns
  • Change in personal grooming habits

You should also be aware of withdrawal signs from substance abuse. The symptoms of withdrawal vary in severity and may include tremors, irritability, and vomiting. You may also notice increased anxiety or flu-like symptoms when going through withdrawal.

Physical signs often go hand-in-hand with behavioral and psychological warning signs of substance abuse. Understanding all the symptoms before confronting yourself or another regarding substance abuse is good.

 

Behavioral warning signs

Changes in behavior are widespread with a substance abuse problem. If you’re struggling with addiction, you may have issues with any of the following:

  • Relationship problems
  • Financial strain or stealing money
  • Neglecting normal responsibilities
  • Taking risks or dangerous behaviors
  • Sudden changes in friends or activities
  • Constantly seeking drugs or alcohol
  • Increased tolerance for drugs or alcohol
  • Abandoning your normal activities

Someone with a substance abuse problem continues to use and crave their drug of choice, no matter what the consequences. You exhibit dangerous behaviors, such as drinking and driving or using dirty needles to get high.

If you recognize any warning signs of substance abuse in yourself or someone you know, it’s not too late to get help. The earlier you ask for help, the sooner you can get on the road to recovery and improve your physical and mental health.

If you or someone you know needs help with substance abuse, call our Norwalk, California office at 562-669-3287 to schedule an appointment or request a consultation using the website booking feature.