Signs and Symptoms Drug Abuse
Drug addiction, also known as substance use disorder, is a condition that impacts a person’s brain and behaviour, leading to a compulsive need to use legal or illegal drugs or medications. Alcohol, cannabis, and nicotine are also classified as drugs. When someone is addicted, they may continue to use the drug despite the negative consequences it may have on both themselves and individuals around them.
Drug addiction can begin with the experimental use of a recreational drug in social situations, and for some individuals, drug use becomes more frequent. For others, especially with opioids, addiction starts when they are prescribed medicines or obtain them from others who have prescriptions.
The likelihood of developing an addiction and the speed at which one becomes addicted differ depending on the drug. Some drugs, including opioid painkillers, carry a higher risk and can lead to addiction more quickly than others.
Over time, the need for larger doses of the drug to experience euphoria may develop. Eventually, you might need the drug simply to feel good. Trying to stop using the drug may lead to intense cravings and make you feel physically unwell. These are known as withdrawal symptoms.
Support from your healthcare provider, family, friends, support groups, or an organised treatment programme can assist you in overcoming your drug addiction and remaining free from drugs.
What are the Signs of Drug Dependancy?
Recognising the signs of drug dependency is critical for identifying and addressing substance misuse. Symptoms of drug addiction are multifaceted and can manifest in various ways, impacting daily life and overall well-being. Key indicators include:
Psychological symptoms
- Mental health issues such as anxiety or depression
- Increased temper, irritability, agitation or defensiveness
- Paranoia, feeling nervous and ‘on edge’ with friends and family
- Experiencing overpowering cravings for the substance that overshadow all other thoughts and responsibilities
- Experiencing hallucinations that may be visual
- A strong feeling of needing to use the drug regularly
- Inability to focus or concentrate at work, home, or finding you can only function when you are using the drug
- Feeling tearful and emotionally drained
- Memory problems
- A feeling of low self-esteem and self-worth
- Using drugs to self-medicate against stress or anxiety
Physical symptoms
- Increased tolerance of the drug, meaning you need to take more in order to feel the same effects
- Headaches
- Excessive sweating in the absence of physical exertion
- Fluctuations in weight and changes in your appetite
- Lack of concern over your physical appearance/personal hygiene
- Disrupted sleep patterns, including insomnia
- Lethargy
- Bloodshot eyes, or dilated pupils
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop taking the drug, such as feeling shaky or nauseous or having stomach cramps
Behavioural symptoms
- Secretive and dishonest behaviour in relation to drugs
- Withdrawing from responsibility and avoiding contact with loved ones
- Finding that you only tend to socialise with people who take drugs
- Devoting an excessive amount of time to obtaining and using drugs
- Ensuring a constant supply of the drug is maintained to avoid running out
- Prioritising drugs over other activities, or losing interest in things that were once important to you such as social and leisure activities
- Continuing to use the drug despite being aware of the negative consequences it has on your work, home, social life and health
- Poor performance and/or attendance at school or work
- Spending money on the drug despite financial difficulties
- Stealing from your family and friends to fund your drug habit
- Shoplifting to fund your habit
- Taking part in highly risky activities, such as driving, while under the influence of drugs
Fast Access to Residential Treatment
We are currently able to offer fast access to private inpatient treatment.
Please call us today and speak to one of our expert advisors.
Call in confidence: 0800 0148 970
What to do if You’re Struggling with Drug Addiction
If you or someone you love is battling with drug addiction, you can take several steps to start the recovery process. We will list them below.
Speak to someone you trust
Admitting that you may have a problem with drugs is, perhaps, the most difficult step in the recovery process. To make it easier, you can try speaking with someone you love and trust, whether a family member, a partner, or a friend. Getting their honest opinion and having their support will be a crucial part of continuing on the road to recovery.
In case you think someone around you is struggling, the approach is reversed. First, you ought to find a delicate way to approach the subject. Doing research prior to this conversation is pivotal, as it can help you make them feel more understood and accepted. Once you have all the facts, approach them while they are not under the influence of drugs, talk to them, and make sure they know they’ll have your support throughout the entire process.
Though no one can go back and make a
brand-new start, anyone can start from
now and make a brand-new ending
Reach out to a support group
There are many support groups that bring those who struggle with drug addiction together. If you feel that your habits are becoming a severe issue, finding and joining one such support group can be of utmost help. By talking to people with similar problems, you may find it easier to break out and start recovering.
Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is one such support group which offer free help lines and meetings available as and when you need them. In addition, they are a good option whether the help you need is short or long-term.
Seek professional treatment
In case your drug habits are severely impacting your life and relationships, taking the most drastic step is often the best option. Professional support will aid you in resisting your cravings and finding healthy coping mechanisms. Nowadays, the most effective addiction programmes include:
- Detox
You will get professional medical help and support with managing withdrawal symptoms after cutting out drugs. - Therapy
Through therapy, you will learn a better understanding of what is causing and triggering your addiction to alcohol; in addition, you will be equipped with strategies you can use to better cope with your condition in the future. - Residential care
Recovering away from all the stress that led to drug taking in the first place can be beneficial, as well as getting treatment and help from experienced medical professionals; they will formulate a recovery plan best suited to your case, including detox, therapy, and any other necessary steps. - Aftercare
Since recovery is never truly over, having resources you can turn to after completing your programme of treatment is vital for maintaining your abstinence no matter what life throws at you.
FREE Drug Addiction Assessment
If you or a loved one are struggling with drug addiction, our professionals are ready to offer compassionate help and support. Our addiction specialists will help you uncover the deep-seated reasons and conditions that may be fuelling your drug addiction.
This crucial step will enable us to guide you towards adopting more effective coping strategies, initiating your path to a brighter, healthier future.
Our highly trained advisers are available to speak to you right away, simply call 0808 252 3379 today.
We can discuss your concerns in complete confidence, explore the options for treatment, and help you to understand what will work best for you.
We’ll also help you to book your free drug addiction assessment there and then, with appointments usually available within only a few days.
We understand that taking the first step can be the most difficult, but we’re here to support – with no pressure or judgement.
Professional and compassionate help is just a phone call or click away.
Treatment for Drug Addiction
Thanks to our network of centres and hospitals across the UK, we can provide you with specialist drug addiction care and treatment. Our team of medical professionals, including psychiatrists, addiction therapists, and psychologists will ensure you get the best possible care.
Depending on your needs, you can opt for different addiction treatment types. We can admit you to one of our treatment centres and offer exceptional inpatient care while you recover and learn to form healthier habits surrounded by our experts.
Alternatively, we can treat you on a day-care or outpatient basis. In such circumstances, you could continue living your life as usual while still getting the required help.
Aside from these programmes, we also offer you a free-of-charge addiction assessment. It can aid us in determining the best course of treatment for your case.
Using the information below, you can book your free assessment today and take the deciding step toward your recovery.
Start your recovery today!
