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If your drug use is causing problems in your life—at work, school, home, or in your relationships—you likely have a drug abuse or addiction problem. People from all walks of life can experience problems with their drug use, regardless of age, race, background, or the reason they started using drugs in the first place. Some people experiment with recreational drugs out of curiosity, to have a good time, because friends are doing it, or to ease problems such as stress, anxiety, or depression. Sometimes the warning signs of substance abuse can be quite subtle and not easy at all to identify. You may not recognize the red flags, even if they are right in front of you.
We have proven instrumental in the successful placement of our clients in expert rehab programs across our extensive network. We are here to help you or your loved one navigate the rehab process and get on track to a drug-free life. Recognizing the signs of prescription drug abuse is not only for trained professionals. Family and friends are the first line of attack against an advancing drug problem. One of the best responses to witnessing the signs is to talk to a qualified counselor about how to get help.
Risk Factors for Drug Use in Young Adults
Users can permanently damage their sinus and nasal cavities. Prescription painkiller abuse has reached the magnitude of an epidemic in America. These drugs are usually opioids, a synthetic or partially synthetic drug that resembles opium in its compound structure.
- There are many dangerous long-term effects of heroin addiction including collapsed veins, infections, lung complications, and abscesses.
- Heroin and opioids will give users constricted pupils and a glassy-eyed, hazy look, similar to what happens when someone has consumed excessive amounts of alcohol.
- Synthetic cannabinoids, also called K2 or Spice, are sprayed on dried herbs and then smoked, but can be prepared as an herbal tea.
- Not everyone who uses drugs or alcohol has a substance abuse problem.
Thus, to avoid getting caught in a lie and having to explain themselves to others, many addicts will use drugs in private. If you are concerned that someone you know might be abusing drugs, it is important to act quickly and carefully. Things can get from bad to worse if you wait too long to help a loved one get help. Opioids, also known as narcotics, are usually strong prescription pain relievers that can become extremely addictive if abused. Oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl are common opioids. Advanced signs of addiction include missing medication; burnt or missing spoons and/or bottle caps, syringes; small bags with powder residue; and missing shoelaces and/or belts.
What are the risk factors for teen drug abuse?
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Also, people in lower socioeconomic brackets do not have as much margin for error as wealthier individuals. While someone in the middle or upper class can more easily signs of drug use access therapy and rehabilitation, and handle legal woes, someone in poverty cannot. The use of most substances will produce noticeable signs and symptoms.
Substance abuse signs & symptoms
Withdrawn behavior and responding with hostility or wariness when uncomfortable topics arise can be a sign of defensiveness. A person trying to hide addiction may redirect the conversation with arguments or even aggressive https://ecosoberhouse.com/ mood swings, and distraction methods are also a defensive sign. This can manifest as urges to take a prescription drug at a higher dose than prescribed or continuing after the health problem it treats has ended.
Packages are often labeled as other products to avoid detection. Synthetic cannabinoids, also called K2 or Spice, are sprayed on dried herbs and then smoked, but can be prepared as an herbal tea. A liquid form can be vaporized in electronic cigarettes. Despite manufacturer claims, these are chemical compounds rather than “natural” or harmless products.
Drug Addiction Treatment
Depending on many factors, someone struggling with addiction might go to great lengths to hide the physical signs or treat the symptoms with total apathy. Long-term abuse of drugs and alcohol can result in drastic changes to physical appearance. Many drugs have appetite suppressing or other altering side effects, meaning abuse often results in visible weight changes.
