Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
People who use drugs tend to show signs of drug abuse in every aspect of their lives. It’s common for an addict to miss work, neglect family obligations and have financial problems. Addiction consumes the addict’s life, and finding the next high is the most important thing. If the drug has a powerful enough hold over the person, he or she may resort to stealing money to buy drugs. You might notice money or valuable items disappearing from your home. You might notice a chance in your loved one’s sleeping patterns. Some drugs keep you awake for a long period of time, causing you to fall asleep when you come down from your high. Other drugs relax you, so that you sleep more often than normal. Physical signs of drug abuse vary depending on the type of drug the person is using. However, some common symptoms include a decline in physical appearance, sudden weight loss or weight gain, dilated pupils and bad dental hygiene. The symptoms of drug abuse vary depending on the person. According to HelpGuide.org, common symptoms include using drugs to get rid of withdrawal symptoms, a tolerance to the substance and a continued use of drugs even though you know it’s hurting you. |
According to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, alcohol is the top substance abused by teens, with potentially devastating long-term results. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reports in its 2007 "Alcohol Alert" that by senior year in high school, more than 70 percent of youth have tried alcohol. Alcohol-related problems can start at an early age and recognizing symptoms of teen alcohol abuse is important for prevention and treatment.
Physical Symptoms When alcohol abuse becomes a factor in a teen's life, there are some significant physical symptoms that may be displayed. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) indicates that observable fatigue and glassy or red, watery eyes are a typical symptom of alcohol use. Teens may also display changes in sleep patterns and eating habits when alcohol is being abused. Weight gain can occur, depending on the frequency of abuse. Staggered walking, poor motor coordination and shaking hands are also signs of teen alcohol abuse. Teens abusing alcohol may also neglect their hygiene or exude an odor of alcohol. The Mayo Clinic recommends talking to your teen if these symptoms are present. |