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12 Signs of Drug Addiction: Do You Need Help?

2 min read

By Emily Lockhart

Do you or someone you know have a drug addiction? It’s difficult to tell at first, however, many people are able to use recreational or prescription drugs without developing a dangerous substance abuse problem. Drug addiction can affect your whole life—from work and finances to personal relationships, school, and health.

If you think you or someone else you know has a drug addiction, look for the following warning signs of substance abuse…

1. Changes in Appearance

Sudden weight gain or loss, blood shot eyes, dilated pupils, and strange smells on their breath or clothing.


2. Loss of Appetite

Lack of interest in eating or sleep.


3. Lack of Personal Hygiene

Drug addicts often cease personal grooming—such as washing clothes, showering, and brushing teeth.


4. Memory Loss

For instance, unable to recall what they did last night or if injured, unable to recall how it occurred.


5. Loss of Interest in Social Activities

A loss of motivation for school, hobbies, exercise, or for things that they enjoyed in the past.


6. Financial Requests

For instance, a sudden unexplained need for money—i.e., borrowing or stealing to pay off unexplained debt.


7. Secretive Behavior

They act sneaky, withdraw from those they love and remain secretive about where they spend their time.


8. Change in Social Circles

A shift from long time friends and relationships to new friends, hangouts, and pastimes.


9. Change in Personality

Unexplained changes in attitude, mood, increased irritability, and angry outbursts.


10. Highs and Lows

Periods of extreme hyperactivity—followed by periods of fatigue where they seem “out of it”.


11. New Health Concerns

Sure as headaches, seizures or tremors, and nosebleeds (i.e., meth or cocaine use).


12. Paranoia

A sudden fear or distrust of others with no rational explanation.

 

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Emily Lockhart

Contributor

Emily Lockhart is a certified yoga instructor and personal trainer. She believes that being healthy is a lifestyle choice, not a punishment or temporary fix to attain a desired fitness or body image goal. Anna helps her clients take responsibility for their own health and wellness through her classes and articles on ActiveBeat.

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