Drug addiction is an insidious disease that affects millions of people. A Surgeon General’s report estimates that one in seven Americans will struggle with addiction in their lifetime.
The good news is that it’s easier than ever to find help for those who are suffering from the scourge of addiction. With over the counter treatments like naloxone for opioid overdoses and the spread of “Good Samaritan” 911 laws, we are becoming increasingly equipped to battle addiction as the public health epidemic it is.
But, what are the signs of someone on drugs? How do you know if your loved one is suffering from drug dependency? These five not so obvious signs may help identify someone in need of treatment for addiction.
1. Drug Addict Eyes
Look into your friend’s eyes. Is something off?
The eyes of someone suffering from addiction could be bloodshot, appear “dead,” or have enlarged pupils when they’re under the influence. You might also notice low eyelids during periods of use, depending on the drug of choice.
Some people experience shame during use, and have trouble making eye contact.
2. Making Excuses
People struggling with addict behavior will often make excuses for their excessive use. If your loved one seems hungover or sick every morning yet chalks it up to anything else but nightly drinking or drug use, they could have a problem.
Watch for a pattern of excuses and rationalizations, including trying extreme detox methods before work or school-mandated drug testing.
3. Mood Swings
Everyone is entitled to typical mood swings and a decent number of bad days. But if someone you know is becoming isolated, paranoid, or has unprovoked mood swings — they could be suffering from a drug addiction.
This one is tough, and is one of the more easily hidden signs of someone on drugs. Depression, anxiety, and crankiness are part of life for some, so it can be hard to source mood changes. Check on your friends if you’re worried about them.
4. Money Problems
It’s tough to know how to tell if someone is on drugs, but chronic financial instability can be a clear sign. This isn’t a guaranteed indicator of drug abuse, though. Be careful accusing or assuming.
Money can be tight for many reasons, including family issues, loss of a job, medical problems, and more. But a drug habit is expensive, and unexplained debts can be a sign of substance abuse.
5. Something’s Off
Whether it’s erratic behavior, a new set of sketchy friends, or just an uneasy feeling, if something’s off with your loved ones, you know it. Talk with a friend if they are exhibiting signs of someone on drugs, and be ready to provide details about drug and alcohol treatment programs.
Do You Know the Signs of Someone on Drugs?
Some people think they’ve seen it all until they miss the hidden signs of someone on drugs. Especially if you’re a parent, make sure you’re staying up to date on information about drug trends in kids. Erratic addict behavior, missing money, and sketchy friends can all be early signs that something’s up.
If you or someone you love has struggled with drug use in the past, alternative healing therapies may be just what the doctor ordered. Meditation, acupuncture, and even the non-psychoactive cannabinoid CBD have been proven to help reduce dependency issues. Learn more about CBD oil from us!
