Over time, drug use alters the chemical and functional structures of the brain. Addiction and the intense need for a drug may cause someone amphetamine addiction treatment who is normally very docile to become agitated and aggressive. Also, stimulant drugs may cause a normally depressed person to appear very energetic or even manic. Some drugs, like alcohol, marijuana, crack, or meth, have distinct smells that individuals may try to cover up. You may notice those smells on their clothes, in their car or bedroom, or on their breath or skin.
- Substances of abuse deliver an intense sensation that creates a neurochemically driven motivation to repeat the experience again and again.
- This article looks at what SUD involves and its symptoms and treatment options.
- Understanding the signs and symptoms of drug addiction is the first step towards getting help.
Toggle Some physical signs of drug use are:
There is no real difference between physical addiction and psychological addiction. Addiction is one of those conditions that demonstrates it is not possible to distinguish between physical and psychological aspects of behavior. The use of most substances will produce noticeable signs and symptoms. These may include physical or behavioral symptoms—most likely both. These CNS depressants are often prescribed to treat anxiety and sleep disorders.
- For example, frequent cannabis use in adolescents can increase the risk of psychosis in adulthood in individuals who carry a particular gene variant.
- Resources such as SAMHSA’s national helpline, treatment referral routing service, and online treatment locator are available.
- People may feel that a substance is adversely affecting their lives and relationships, or that they have trouble stopping use.
- During the intervention, these people gather together to have a direct, heart-to-heart conversation with the person about the consequences of addiction.
- When someone is sliding into addiction, they tend to hang out with people who also use their drug of choice, or use any kind of substance for that matter.
How to Help Someone with a Drug Addiction?
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease that leads to medical, psychological, and social complications. This activity outlines the importance of the interprofessional team in treating patients with addiction to ensure the best long-term outcomes. Participating clinicians review the importance of considering a holistic approach to the care of their patients.
Lifestyle
Despite its legal status, =https://ecosoberhouse.com/ about 17 million adults, ages 18 and older, struggle with alcohol use disorder, or alcoholism. Approach the situation with empathy and concern if you notice a decline. Involving professionals like counselors or addiction specialists may be necessary for guidance and intervention strategies.
A decline in work or school performance can indicate substance use. Recognize and address the issue promptly to prevent further negative consequences. Addiction is often marked by multiple periods of abstinence and relapse. It is common for people to make many attempts at recovery before succeeding, and many experts in fact view relapse as a normal part of the recovery process. While consumption of any illicit drug can be dangerous from a toxicological perspective, it can also create problems from a behavioral perspective.
- Addiction can develop from the use of legal substances (such as alcohol and prescription medications) or illegal drugs (like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine).
- Approach the situation with empathy and encourage the person to seek professional help if necessary.
- Secondly, identifying drug use helps individuals provide support and assistance to their loved ones who may be struggling with addiction.
- Different categories of drugs can lead to various physical signs and symptoms.
- It’s important to consider these changes in conjunction with other signs of drug use to gain a better understanding of the situation.
Admissions navigators at American Addiction Centers (AAC) can help you or your loved one get sober and remain in recovery. This category mostly includes prescription painkillers that are derived from morphine, a synthetic form of the chemical found in the opium poppy. Common opioids include hydrocodone (Vicodin, Lortab, Norco, Zohydro), oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet, Oxycocet, Tylox), fentanyl, methadone, codeine, and tramadol. Opioid addiction is an epidemic in the United States, with many people who can no longer obtain prescription opiates turning to heroin, fentanyl, or other, more potent signs of drug use substances.
If you suspect someone may be using drugs, it’s crucial to seek professional help and support to address the situation effectively. Secondly, identifying drug use helps individuals provide support and assistance to their loved ones who may be struggling with addiction. By understanding the signs, concerned family members and friends can take appropriate steps to encourage treatment and provide a supportive environment. Opioid use can result in signs of respiratory depression, which may lead to frequent stomach cramps and potentially fatal overdose-related deaths.