What warning signs will Drug and Alcohol use have on a person’s body and personality?
There is no easy way to figure out if you or your loved one is struggling with an addiction. As you will see, many of the signs and symptoms of substance abuse listed below are also symptoms of mental health issues, including depression or anxiety disorders. Call Aurora Alcohol and Drug Centre today and our highly skilled staff can help you determine next steps for you or your loved one.
1. Changes in Physical Appearance
Drug and alcohol use will have a recognizable impact on a person’s body. Physical symptoms of substance abuse include:- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
- Development of unusual sores on the body
- Bruises and/or cuts
- Burns, particularly those on hands or face
- Facial redness or irritated skin
- Frequently irritated eyes
- Development of tooth decay or gum problems
- Strange smells on clothing
2. Sudden Health Problems
Common health-related symptoms that can arise from substance abuse are:- Unexplained exhaustion/tiredness
- Irregular sleeping patterns
- Recurrent nosebleeds
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Headaches
- Memory loss
- Cotton mouth (excessively feeling thirsty all the time)
- Constant sickness
3. Unexplained Personality Changes
It is important to look for strange, unexplained personality changes that don’t quite make sense, such as:- Sudden lack of motivation
- Loss of conscience or inhibitions
- Boisterous, loud behavior
- Out of character withdrawal, over excitement, or hyperactivity
4. Mental Instability
Drugs can sometimes trigger a psychological imbalance. This can be seen when the user begins to:- Hear voices
- Perform actions driven by paranoia
- Act compulsively
- Lose their ability to concentrate or focus
5. Emotional Instability
Depressants and stimulants are designed to help improve a person’s emotions. That is why drugs and alcohol can often activate:- Depression
- Mood swings
- Difficulties in managing anger
6. Changes at School or Work
At school or work, the following are addiction red-flags:- Lateness
- Unexplained absences
- Problems and complaints reported by peers, teachers, bosses or co-workers
7. Changes at Home
Around the house, the following are addiction red-flags:- Locked doors
- Excessive use of perfumes or air fresheners/odor-neutralizers
- Missing prescription medications, alcoholic beverages, household cleaners and other products
8. Activities
Substance abuse often becomes the highlight of life for addicts, overshadowing the activities that use to bring them happiness. Changes that should cause concern are:- Lost interest in most or all of their favorite activities
- Breaking promises or making excuses (uncharacteristically)
- Disappearances
9. Change in Possessions
Addiction often causes a person to lose sight of everything else. When looking at their living space or what they hold dear, be concerned if you notice that someone is:- Selling personal items for cash
- Stealing
- In possession of pipes or improvised drug apparatuses
10. Relationships
Things to look out for where relationships are concerned:- New friends they don’t want you to meet
- Increased flirtatious or promiscuous behavior
- An abrupt breaking of long-term ties with their friends and family members
Source: www.addictionhelp.com//10warningsigns
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