15 Warning Signs of Substance Abuse You Shouldnt Ignore

The Mental Health Hotline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can answer your questions in confidence. A relapse is returning to a substance after stopping it for a period of time. You’ll need to detox again and restart your treatment cycle from the beginning.

Signs of alcohol addiction include:

signs of substance abuse

This guide explores five key warning signs that indicate a potential substance abuse issue, along with actionable steps for intervention and treatment options. Substance abuse is a growing concern that affects millions of individuals and families worldwide. It can lead to severe emotional, financial, and health-related troubles.

signs of substance abuse

The role of hypnotherapy in addiction treatment

Bloodshot or glassy eyes are among the most common indicators, frequently caused by the body’s reaction to certain substances, such as alcohol, marijuana, or stimulants. These changes in eye appearance may be accompanied by constricted or dilated pupils, depending on the type of substance being used. what is the best treatment for substance abuse for older adults While these actions may seem subtle, they are critical indicators of an internal struggle and a potential desire to break free from the hold of addiction. Substances disrupt the brain’s reward system, particularly the dopamine pathways that play a key role in experiencing joy and drive. When these pathways are overwhelmed by artificial stimulation, the brain begins to prioritize substances over natural sources of happiness. Activities that once brought joy – playing an instrument, hiking, cooking, or spending time with loved ones – can suddenly feel dull and meaningless.

  • Ultimately, this can lead to job loss, financial instability, and further stress, which can in turn exacerbate substance use.
  • It can lead to severe mental health effects from both the physical changes to the brain and also the disconnect from meaningful relationships and activities.
  • It helps to have a strong support system to rely on if you may be at risk of relapse.
  • Addiction and the intense need for a drug may cause someone who is normally very docile to become agitated and aggressive.
  • If you’re noticing this in yourself, ask yourself if these new relationships are truly helping you or if they are making things worse.

Substance Abuse Disorder vs. Stress or Anxiety

An intervention presents a loved one with a structured opportunity to make changes before things get even worse https://www.katt-kompis.se/seven-ways-to-find-your-purpose-in-life-2/ and can motivate someone to seek or accept help. Outbursts, Resentful Behavior, Intense Irritability, or Mood Swings. They may become moody and not want to talk to you or anyone that may notice changes due to drug use.

  • Support groups also provide essential community and emotional backing, helping individuals navigate recovery effectively.
  • This could include participating in illegal activities, gambling compulsively, or putting themselves in physical danger without rational consideration of the consequences.
  • Neglecting personal grooming habits, such as not bathing regularly, having unkempt hair, or wearing the same clothes for several days, can be indicative of growing substance dependence.
  • Some individuals may attempt to conceal their substance use by wearing long sleeves to cover injection marks or using makeup to hide other physical indicators.

How to Manage Guilt and Regret in Recovery

  • Recognizing the warning signs can help prevent further harm and allow individuals to seek treatment before addiction takes hold.
  • Taking the first step toward recovery can be daunting, but with the right support, overcoming addiction is possible.
  • You may notice your loved one is lying about where they are or who they’re with.
  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and individual and/or group therapy, which can take place in the community or at an inpatient rehabilitation center.
  • This back-and-forth can make life chaotic and relationships fragile, emphasizing the importance of seeking help.

The relationship between substance abuse and sleep is Alcohol Use Disorder a two-way street. In fact, people recovering from drug or alcohol abuse are five times more likely to experience insomnia. While it might initially make falling asleep easier, it significantly disrupts overall sleep quality. People often wake up multiple times during the night or experience restless sleep, even if they spend many hours in bed. Studies show that up to 91% of individuals report insomnia related to alcohol use.

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