Identifying the Signs and Symptoms of Drug Addiction

Drug addiction affects an estimated 6.2 million adults in the U.S., according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. This includes illicit drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, and non-medical use of prescription drugs like painkillers and benzodiazepines. Knowing the signs and symptoms of drug addiction can bring you one step closer to detecting this problem in a loved one so you can find a nearby drug rehab center that can help.

Here are common signs and symptoms of drug addiction, along with a toll-free drug addiction hotline that will connect you with an experienced treatment advisor.

Physical Symptoms of Drug Addiction

Nearly every type of drug produces obvious physical effects when abused — including prescription drugs. Stimulants like cocaine and crystal meth speed up the central nervous system to cause high energy, extreme talkativeness, and hypersensitivity to sight, sound, and touch. In contrast, opioids and sedatives like benzodiazepines slow down the central nervous system to cause drowsiness, confusion and slowed breathing.

Here are other physical symptoms that may indicate drug addiction:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Insomnia
• Sweating
• Hot and cold flushes
• Tearing eyes
• Runny nose
• Constipation and/or diarrhea
• Restlessness
• Bloodshot eyes
• Dilated or constricted pupils
• Agitation
• Irritability
• Aggression
• Headaches
• Tremors

Drug addiction can weaken the immune system over time to make people more susceptible to illness, infection, and disease. These individuals may appear to be sick on a frequent basis and may also miss work or school regularly.

Behavioral Signs of Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing brain disorder and mental illness characterized by compulsive drug seeking and continued drug use despite harmful consequences, per the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Therefore, people who suffer from drug addiction tend to exhibit behaviors that prioritize drug use over their livelihood.

Signs of drug addiction include:

• Using higher amounts or doses of drugs than intended.
• Using drugs for a longer period of time than initially intended.
• Repeatedly attempting to reduce or control drug use without success.
• Spending lots of time on activities that revolve around obtaining drugs, using drugs, and recovering from the effects of drugs.
• Experiencing strong cravings or desires to use drugs.
• Continuing to use drugs despite failing to fulfill major obligations pertaining to work, school, or home.
• Continuing to use drugs despite persistent or repeated social and interpersonal problems that are either caused or worsened by drug use.
• Giving up important social, occupational, and recreational activities due to drug use.
• Using drugs repeatedly in situations in which doing so is physically hazardous, such as using drugs while operating heavy machinery.
• Continuing to use drugs even though doing so is causing or worsening physical and mental health problems.
• Having a high tolerance for drugs and needing higher amounts to achieve desired effects, or experiencing little to no effects when using the usual amount or dosage of drugs.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when abruptly stopping drug use, or continuing to use drugs to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Drug Rehab and Addiction Treatment at Bridges of Hope

If you or a loved one is suffering from drug addiction and needs help, call 765-358-7320 to speak with an experienced treatment advisor. This hotline is confidential and available 24/7 to help those in need of drug addiction treatment. A treatment advisor can discuss all your options for drug detox, alcohol detox, and a range of drug and alcohol rehab programs that can be personalized to help you or your loved one achieve long-term sobriety from addiction.

Bridges of Hope operates drug rehab centers in Anderson, Indiana, and is recognized for being a national leader in safe, proven, and effective addiction treatment. Fill out our free insurance verification form to begin the treatment process today.