Substance abuse is a pattern of compulsive drug use that results in negative consequences for the person and their family. It can be a life-changing issue that affects a person’s health, well-being, mental health, relationships, career, and legal status. It can also lead to serious social and economic problems that cost the United States billions of dollars every year, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
The signs and symptoms of substance abuse are varied, but they tend to develop over time. The earlier a person begins to exhibit a substance abuse problem, the sooner they can get help.
Early warning signs of a substance abuse problem can include:
Physical Changes
People who are addicted to drugs may start to change their appearance, including their skin texture and complexion. They may gain or lose weight rapidly, as many drugs can suppress appetite and alter a person’s appetite and weight. Bloodshot eyes and pinpoint or dilated pupils can also be an indicator of abuse.
Other physical changes can include:
Affected Emotions
Signs of substance abuse may make someone seem irritable, anxious, depressed, or withdrawn. They may even experience extreme mood swings or aggressive behavior that is out of character for them.
Affected Relationships
A person who is struggling with a substance abuse problem will often try to hide their problems, and may withdraw from their friends or family members when uncomfortable topics are raised. They may turn to arguments or other disruptive behavior instead of engaging in conversation, and they might become increasingly defensive about their problems.
Withdrawal Syndrome
When a person who is struggling with a substance use disorder stops using, they will feel a sudden urge to start taking the drug again or may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, nausea, sweating, vomiting, chills, seizures, and fever. This is a normal part of the https://www.hypnosis-swansea.co.uk/substance-abuse/ process, and it can be a frustrating one.
They might be unable to sleep or have a hard time concentrating, or they may have trouble keeping up with their everyday activities. They might also find it hard to stop doing the things that they used to do when they were using the drug, such as driving or working.
Relapse is a common symptom of substance abuse, and it can be frustrating to watch someone you love struggle with addiction again and again. The best way to support your loved one is to understand the reasons why they started using drugs in the first place and continue to offer them your help in the recovery process.
Understanding your loved one’s motivations is the first step in helping them overcome their addiction and begin living a healthier, happier, more fulfilling life. They may have started using drugs because they were stressed, to self-medicate their depression or other mental problems, or because they had a new peer group that pushed them to use drugs.
Getting help from a professional is the best way to stop drug abuse and start living a healthy, happy life. The sooner you contact a help line or a counselor, the more likely it is that your loved one will receive the treatment and care they need to succeed in recovery.