Signs of Drug Use: How to Tell if Someone is on Drugs
Some of the most abused drugs are stimulants or depressants. Addictive substances alter the brain’s natural circadian rhythm which can actually cause sleep disturbances well after someone has stopped using the drug. When drug use becomes a priority in someone’s life, hygiene and outward appearance may become less and less important. Some may forget they haven’t taken care of themselves because of the mental effects of their drug use. Others simply stop caring as their time is consumed by the high and then getting more of their drug so they can get high again. However, it’s important to approach the situation tactfully, focusing on providing support rather than judgment.
- They may lose interest in grooming habits that were once important to them, such as showering regularly or taking care of their hair and skin.
- They may forget about plans or things they were supposed to do.
- Drugs typically refer to highly addictive substances such as cocaine, heroin, and meth.
Why Identifying Signs of Drug Use is Important
Understanding behavioral signs, such as sudden mood swings and changes in social behavior, can assist in recognizing potential drug use. By being vigilant and offering support, we can help those struggling with addiction find the necessary resources for recovery. One of the noticeable behavioral signs of drug use is the occurrence of sudden and unexplained mood swings. Individuals struggling with drug addiction may experience extreme shifts in their mood and emotions. They might appear elated and euphoric in one moment, and then become irritable, agitated, or even aggressive in the next. Firstly, early detection allows for early intervention and increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
Signs of Drug Abuse
Keep the door open, set clear limits at home, and offer options like a call with a clinician or telehealth. It means drug or alcohol use is causing harm and is hard to stop, even when the person wants to stop. Start with patterns like mood swings, secret phone use, missing money, and a strange smell on clothes. Every aspect of your treatment, medical support, therapy, and holistic practices works together in a unified plan. This integrated approach ensures that all your needs are addressed, providing you with the best foundation for a lasting recovery. Offer support and discuss options, like meeting a therapist, visiting a doctor, or contacting Ready to Evolve Recovery.
Clear Signs Someone Is Using Drugs (From Years of Experience)
Sprayed weed is cannabis contaminated with pesticides or chemicals. Check for discoloration, mold, strange how to tell if someone is on drugs smells, or odd texture to avoid health risks. An enabler excuses harmful behavior, putting others first and blocking growth. Breaking the cycle needs clear boundaries and encouraging independence.
Drug use can have a profound impact on an individual’s mood and behavior. If you notice someone exhibiting frequent mood swings or unexplained irritability, it could be a sign of drug use. Drugs can disrupt the brain’s natural chemistry, leading to extreme highs and lows in mood. Keep in mind that mood swings can also be caused by other factors, so it’s important to look for other signs and patterns of behavior before making any conclusions. One of the telltale signs of drug use is a noticeable change in appearance and personal hygiene. Individuals who are using drugs may neglect their physical appearance, appearing disheveled or unkempt.
Sustained Recovery
For comprehensive information about marijuana’s health effects, the CDC provides detailed guidance on both risks and impacts. Learn when to go to rehab for alcohol and what you need to know about seeking help to begin your recovery journey successfully. We’d love the opportunity to help you during this overwhelming and difficult process. The Summit Wellness Group is located in Georgia and all of your calls will be directed to one of our local staff members. Our sincere passion is helping people recover so that they can live full, meaningful and healthy lives. Many people struggling with an addiction have some interaction with the law at some point in their life.
Signs of Drug Use in Relationships
- Express your concern for their well-being and offer your support in finding help and treatment.
- In order to get high or to hide their drug abuse, your loved one may miss school or work but have no good excuse as to why.
- If your loved one is experiencing withdrawal or overdose symptoms, there is a good chance that they may be struggling with addiction.
- They may be depressed when they are not high or start to look at themselves negatively.
They may lose interest in grooming habits that were once important to them, such as showering regularly or taking care of their hair and skin. Identifying the psychological signs of drug use is crucial in recognizing potential substance abuse. These signs can manifest in various ways, affecting cognitive abilities and emotional well-being. Knowing the signs that someone is on drugs may help you identify when there is a problem.
If you’ve noticed several of these signs someone Is using drugs—especially across categories—it’s time to act. Our compassionate and experienced admissions team is available 24 hours a day, ready to listen and guide you through the next safe and effective steps. Contact us now to get the help you need to support your loved one and start the journey toward health and healing. We’ll discuss your concerns, goals, and daily responsibilities to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your life. If you ever feel worried about someone’s substance use, don’t hesitate to seek professional help immediately. The SAMHSA National Helpline provides free, confidential support 24/7.
Can drug use cause physical health problems?
By being aware of these signs, you can better understand the potential presence of drug use. If you notice your loved one displaying signs of emotional instability or irritability, it’s important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Remember that drug addiction is a disease and not a personal failing. Encourage your loved one to seek professional help and treatment to address the root cause of their emotional distress. It’s important to approach these behavioral signs with empathy and understanding.
You may not even notice this until the school calls or until they stop receiving paychecks. Over time, drug use alters the chemical and functional structures of the brain. Addiction and the intense need for a drug may cause someone 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.
Scarring may occur through repeated injection at the same spot. Professional guidance designed to help on your journey to recovery. That doesn’t mean you’re wrong—it just means they’re scared or not ready to face it yet. Drugs change how people think, feel, and act—and not in subtle ways. Our facility offers a comfortable, hospitality-inspired setting where you can focus on healing. Regular community events help you build meaningful connections with others in recovery, creating a sense of belonging and mutual support.
It’s crucial to remember that these physical signs alone do not confirm drug use, but they can serve as potential indicators. If you believe someone may be using drugs, it’s essential to seek professional help and support to address the situation appropriately. By understanding these lifestyle and habit changes, you can be more aware of the potential signs of drug use. It’s important to approach the situation with care and concern, as drug use can have serious consequences.
These marks can result from injecting drugs intravenously or from self-inflicted harm due to drug-induced compulsive behaviors. It’s important to note that the presence of marks or bruises alone does not definitively indicate drug use, as other factors may also contribute to their occurrence. The most important thing is not to ignore your instincts. If the signs someone Is using drugs are stacking up, you don’t need proof to reach out for help. Talk to a professional, get support for yourself, and know that you’re not alone in this.
They could help you catch it early and get them treatment—before things get worse. When someone close to you is using drugs, the signs someone Is using drugs are there—they’re just easy to miss if you don’t know what to look for. It’s hard to detect undercover drug use, but some signs can alert you. Users might avoid eye contact, feel bad or guilty, provide inconsistent reasons, or exit the room after receiving phone notifications or messages.