Across the United States, millions of adults suffer from drug abuse. Yet, not nearly enough people are getting the support they need to heal and recover. Similarly, as common as this condition is, many people don’t know how to recognize a problem’s signs. Therefore, learning more about five of the most common signs of drug abuse and what to do if you notice these signs in a loved one is vital. Soledad House can guide individuals through recognizing drug abuse and finding the right drug addiction treatment support.
What Is Drug Abuse?
In simple terms, drug abuse is a self-destructive behavioral pattern in which an individual focuses on using and obtaining addictive substances. Whether these are illicit or prescription, the effects of long-term drug abuse can be debilitating.
Those struggling with drug abuse might have begun to use drugs after receiving a prescription for medication that helps with pain or anxiety. Many prescription medications are highly addictive, and those who become dependent on them might not realize they have a problem.
Five Common Signs of Drug Abuse
If you suspect a loved one has a drug abuse problem, you may wonder what signs to look for. The following five clues are possible indicators of addiction and the need for a drug rehab center.
- Changes in physical appearance
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Unexplained financial issues
- Secretive, unusual patterns of behavior
- Emotional changes
While this is not an exhaustive list of the signs of drug abuse, if you see any of these in a loved one, it could be a sign that they are struggling. Simply talking to them about what they are going through and learning more about their situation could help your loved one decide to reach out for help.
Changes in Physical Appearance
A person suffering from addiction may change drastically in appearance. For example, they may have bloodshot eyes, lose a lot of weight unintentionally, or lose interest in previous personal grooming habits.
Withdrawal Symptoms are Signs of Drug Abuse
As an individual acclimates to the physical effects, they require more to feel the same euphoric effects. Additionally, if they run out or attempt to take less, they may go through uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
Unexplained Financial Issues
If an individual purchases drugs or medications often, they may suffer financial strife. A sudden inability to pay bills is usually an indication of a problem. They also might have trouble fulfilling responsibilities at work due to drug use and could experience maintaining employment.
Secretive, Unusual Patterns of Behavior
Those with substance addiction usually attempt to hide their drug use from others. Changes in behavior patterns, an increasing desire for privacy, and drastic schedule changes may point to a drug problem. If your loved one regularly lies about where they’ve been or what they’re doing or becomes defensive when asked about their use of drugs or alcohol, this could be a sign of addiction.
Emotional Changes
Depression, mood swings, anxiety, and irritability are common emotional problems for an addicted individual. If these symptoms are new and cannot be explained in another way, they could indicate a drug problem. For some, addiction exacerbates existing mental health issues.
Drug Addiction Treatment Programs
At Soledad House in San Diego, California, we understand how overwhelming drug addiction and abuse can be. Centered in a luxurious location just minutes from the beach, we offer in-depth programs that help you heal from drug addiction. Our women’s addiction treatment center provides a safe, supportive environment where struggling with addiction can rebuild their lives. At Soledad House, we offer addiction treatment programs such as:
- Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment
- Alcohol Addiction Treatment
- Polysubstance Abuse Treatment
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Reach Out for Help at Soledad House
Featuring additional amenities such as camping, exercise therapy, roller skating, and spiritually-focused activities, we strive to make the healing journey as pleasant as possible. If you’re struggling with addiction, don’t continue fighting alone. You can overcome your addiction at a quality treatment center. Contact us at 866.314.3222 today to discover how we can help.
