It should be noted that substance abuse revolves around various substances like alcohol and illegal drugs, as well as legally prescribed medications. It is a hazardous disease that threatens personal happiness, family life, and career. So, what are some signs and symptoms of substance abuse? You may use this list to identify potential substance abusers and prevent them from developing the habit.
Behavioral Changes: Warning Signs in Daily Life
They may also become irritable or aggressive and have conflicts within their friendships or families. It is important to know these behavioral signs in helping one determine if substance abuse is in operation. If you notice these signs in a person, it is important to recommend that you help them seek professional help to break free from addiction.
Physical Deterioration: The Body's Red Flags
Substance dependence can result in a number of bodily changes conducive to physical dependence. These health problems may differ depending on the substance being abused, but some may include changes in sleeping patterns, suffering from insomnia or being excessively sleepy, tiredness and lack of energy, excessive weight changes, shaking or trembling, and physical discomfort that cannot be cured.
In extreme cases, there might be indications of organ damage or seizure. So, if you see a cluster of these symptoms in a person, encourage that person to go to the doctor. DragonFly Medical & Behavioral Health offers promising treatments for people suffering from substance use disorders. You can reach out to them for help!
How Substance Abuse Affects Mood & Thinking
Drugs can also disturb the normal functions of the brain chemicals that regulate moods and how an individual thinks. A person dealing with addiction can be extremely moody–from being angry and hostile to extremely depressed or anxious. They may also have memory, concentration, and attention deficit problems.
Sometimes, substance abuse can cause hallucinations as well as paranoia or even psychosis. These changes in mood and cognitive processes may have a negative impact on the functioning of the person and his relations with other people.
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Strained Relationships & Lost Connections
Intoxication also causes adverse effects on family members. Addiction leads to volatility, inconsistency, and lack of integrity that breeds conflict. An addict may refuse to communicate with family and friends and fail to perform his or her duties. Family members may become frustrated and angry because they can’t help someone, and they may refuse to talk to them.
Financial Difficulties: The Hidden Cost of Addiction
Alcohol and other drugs can have an adverse effect on a person’s finances. The cost of the substance itself can become too high and lead to situations in which people have to forgo basic needs or even steal money to buy the drug.
Furthermore, substance abuse can result in the loss of employment due to absence, low efficiency, or potential hazards. Addiction can also lead to medical expenses. These factors can lead a person struggling with addiction to a vicious cycle of financial problems.
Increased Risk-Taking: A Dangerous Downward Spiral
Alcohol and drug use can result in an escalation of risky behaviors. In an effort to increase the impact of the substance or to quell the withdrawal symptoms, the user may participate in activities that they would not otherwise undertake.
This could include drunk driving, irresponsible sexual behavior, and risky investments, among others. Drugs or alcohol are associated with lowered inhibitions and impaired judgment, and this leads to a greater likelihood of accidents, injuries, and even legal offenses.
Cravings & Withdrawal Symptoms: The Body's Cry for Help
Tolerance occurs due to continued exposure to a substance, and the body needs a higher concentration to have the same effect. The absence of the substance causes withdrawal symptoms, which are often both physically and emotionally distressing.
These cravings and withdrawal symptoms reflect the efforts of the body to restore homeostasis after prolonged exposure to the substance. These symptoms can vary from mild to severe depending on the substance and severity of addiction, but they can also play a role in encouraging substance use.
Denial & Justification: Recognizing Defense Mechanisms
One of the biggest problems in dealing with substance abuse is denial. Drug addicts may be very resistant to change, defending their behavior with statements like ‘It’s not that bad,’’ ‘It’s not a big deal,’ or ‘It’s not my fault.’’ They may also employ justification where they try to explain or even justify their substance abuse. Identifying these defense mechanisms is important in helping one identify those who need help.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: One typical symptom of substance dependence is the increased tolerance to the substance, requiring more of it to achieve the desired effect.
A: The four primary symptom clusters of substance abuse are impaired control, social impairment, risky use, and pharmacological criteria.
A: Four common signs and symptoms of prescription drug abuse include changes in behavior, physical health issues, neglecting responsibilities, and engaging in risky behaviors.
A: An example of substance misuse is using prescription medication in a manner inconsistent with the prescribed instructions.
Quality Addiction Treatments At DragonFly Medical & Behavioural Health
Discover a path to recovery with DragonFly Medical & Behavioral Health’s premier addiction treatment services. Our experienced team provides personalized counseling, effective medication management, and comprehensive behavioral therapy to help you achieve lasting sobriety. Moreover, we have a proven track record when it comes to helping people with mental health disorders along with a substance use disorder.
Additionally, we also help identify your particular mental health disorder so that the right treatment can be administered. Take the first step toward a healthier, drug addiction-free life, and contact us today to schedule a consultation with our mental health professional.
