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List of Drug Addiction Symptoms to Spot an Addict


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Drug addiction is an ill that can affect anyone at any age. From teenagers to mature adults, anyone and everyone can get addicted to drugs. The reasons for the addiction may be varied, but the results are almost always same – a ruined life that has no escape unless treated holistically under the strict supervision of expert healthcare professionals. And longer the period of addiction, the more difficult it becomes to get rid of the malice. That’s why it is important to identify addiction at its very early stages so that treatment can be started as quickly as possible.


Common symptoms of drug addiction


Physical changes


The regular symptoms of a drug addict are as follows:


*      Glassy or red eyes

*      Runny nose

*      Loss of appetite

*      Unusual sweating

*      Weight loss

*      Sudden muscle cramps and teeth clenches.

*      Unusual shaking, dilated pupils, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting.

*      Periods of extreme excitement and talkative nature.

*      Rise in the normal body temperature.

Behavioral changes

*      Increased nervousness, agitation, and violent behavior.

*      Sudden changes in the mood.

*      Changes in regular habits and behavior.

*      Changing/abrupt sleeping patterns

*      Poor sex drive.

*      Onset of paranoia.

*      Hallucinations and mental confusion.

*      Problems in time and space perception.

*      Coordination issues.

*      Delusional perception of power.

*      Experiencing long bouts of sleeplessness.

*      Gradual loss of interest in hobbies and passion.

*      Neglecting regular means of recreation.

*      Less or no interest in social interactions.

*      No care about personal grooming.

*      Increasing distance from family members and friends.

*      Poor judgment and decision capabilities.

*      No desire to carry on with daily activities/duties.

*      Developing more unhealthy acquaintances.


Though these are the major symptoms of drug addictions, the list is not comprehensive. You’d be best off contacting an addiction programs company and seeing what symptoms they are most familiar with. Different individuals may react differently to different drugs and thus, may exhibit a number of symptoms which may vary widely from each other. Apart from these clinical symptoms, you can also look for other non-clinical signs that may help you identify an addict. One thing to also remember is that many who suffer from addiction have underlying mental health issues and a dual diagnosis is needed.


Ø  Financial problems – Though anybody could be in a financial crunch, yet it has been observed that drug addicts mostly face one, sooner or later. Since they have to shell out a lot of money to continue with their habits, they often cannot manage their finances properly which may be taken as an indication of addiction.


Ø  Taking risks – Many people may like taking risks in life, but that is usually a trait from the very beginning. But if an otherwise quiet man or woman suddenly starts getting involved in dangerous activities more often than usual, you have to get cautious. Drugs often cause a feeling of euphoria and all-powerfulness which prompt people to do risky things without any hesitation.


Ø  Legal trouble – Since addicts often have no perception of the right and wrong while under influence, they are prone to get themselves caught up in legal problems. If you notice someone brawling, breaking rules, being abusive, etc. more than what’s normal for him/her, an addiction problem might be on the rise.


Ø  Shifty behavior – Apart from the behavioral changes mentioned above, an addict may also develop a shifty nature. This is mainly due to their paranoia as well as their desire to hide the fact that they are actually abusing drugs. Also, they are always on the lookout because they often steal money or valuable items to pay for their drugs.