Drug addiction can cause changes in behavior and appearance, with specific signs varying depending on the drug. Depression and drug abuse often go hand in hand, with warning signs including withdrawal, loss of interest, and decline in performance. Physical signs of addiction can include slowed or rapid speech, coordination difficulties, and visible damage to the body. Support programs are available to help those struggling with addiction and their loved ones.
The classic signs of drug abuse and addiction include a wide range of changes in an addict’s behavior and appearance. While there are certain changes in behavior and appearance that are traditionally associated with nearly all drug addiction, there are also indications of drug abuse and dependence that are specific to some types of drugs. Signs of drug abuse and addiction will also vary, depending on the classification of the drug being abused. For example, someone who is addicted to barbiturates and benzodiazepines (tranquilizers) will typically exhibit completely opposite signs and symptoms to someone who is addicted to stimulants such as methamphetamine and cocaine.
Some of the general signs of drug abuse and addiction are also signs often associated with depression. The relationship between depression and drug abuse is often close for addicts who struggle with depression and turn to drugs as a means of self-medication. Some of these warning signs include withdrawal from family and friends, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, feelings of hopelessness, and a noticeable decline in performance at school or work. Among the signs of drug abuse and addiction that manifest themselves physically is a general loss of interest in one’s appearance and personal hygiene.
Signs of drug abuse and dependence on benzodiazepines or barbiturates (downers) include slowed speech, physical movements, dizziness, coordination difficulties and memory loss. However, someone who is addicted to stimulants typically exhibits the opposite: rapid speech, jitteriness, twitching, and an inability to sit or sleep. Addicts who snort stimulants such as cocaine may have a visibly damaged septum and holes in the cartilage of the nose. Intravenous drug abuse and addiction are often visible on the addict’s arms in the form of “traces,” which are dark veins that run down the arm.
As one of the most dangerous drugs, as well as one of the fastest growing in popularity, crystal meth is addictive that manifests itself in a variety of noticeable physical traits. Users may develop sores or abscesses on their body as a result of picking imaginary bugs “crawling” under the skin. They may also lose their teeth (“meth mouth”) and display restlessness, paranoia, twitching, and sudden bursts of energy.
Support programs dedicated to helping those struggling with drug abuse and addiction operate in cities around the world and can be found online or in the telephone directory. Additionally, there are groups that can offer help to friends and family members of people struggling with addiction. Various support groups operate under different theories and take various approaches to helping members, from group meetings with peers to assigning members to a mentor who can help them navigate the struggles of recovering and living with an addiction.
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