Signs of Drug Abuse

If you suspect a loved one of abusing drugs be aware and be ready to recognize signs of drug abuse. These may include the physical and emotional changes noticed in a friend, or the sudden disappearance of household items and cash traced to a son or daughter stealing to support a habit. Very few people suffering with drug abuse reach out for help on their own. They are usually in too deep of a state of denial, or are so far into the cycle of drug abuse that making smart decisions is simply not an option. That means the burden of helping a person suffering from drug abuse will often fall on family, friends and other loved ones. But how can these caring individuals know if their loved one even has a problem with drug abuse? Understanding the signs of drug abuse is a good place to start.

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to spotting the signs of drug abuse. The main thing to look for is changes in behavior, attitude, appearance, friends, or activities. People who are having problems with drug abuse are often trying to self-medicate or find escape from the issues that are really bothering them.

In all instances of drug abuse, watch for a tendency on the part of the abuser to refrain and shun conversation and face-to-face meetings with others. You are watching for behavior that represents a somewhat dramatic change in character from previous experience. The person using the drugs will almost always try to explain away or justify the signs of drug abuse.

Although every individual is different, the following represent some of the most common signs of drug abuse:

Performance. This can either be at school or work - or in some other way. Are the person's grades suddenly dropping? Is the quality of work assignments becoming progressively worse? Does the person's performance in sports or music suffer? When someone suddenly becomes worse at something he or she is good at, this can be one of the signs of drug abuse. Additionally, someone abusing drugs may stop showing up on time - or at all.

Personal care. This is a sign common to many drug abuse problems. When a person is abusing drugs, he or she may not take good care of him or herself. You may notice that personal hygiene, such as regular showers and changing one's clothing regularly, is no longer important. Someone who is involved in drug abuse may no longer care about fixing his or her hair, or performing other grooming tasks.

Tendency toward recklessness. Someone abusing drugs often does not care about the natural consequences of his or her actions. He or she may do reckless things, such as steal to get money for more drugs - or even engage in other dangerous behaviors. Natural consequences of their choices are no longer important to abusing drugs.

Withdrawal from friends, family and activities. Another sign of drug abuse is withdrawal from normal activities. New, more dangerous friends can indicate a drug abuse problem. Additionally, someone involved with drug abuse may also become more secretive, desiring to be left alone by family members. Drug abusers also may begin withdrawing from enjoyed activities, such as going out with friends or participating in clubs and organizations.

Lack of money. An addict can spend money very quickly when drug abuse is involved. So, when a person is abusing drugs they will begin to run short of money and justify excuses to why their finances have diminished. Signs of this include having to borrow money from friends and family for food or gas. Coming up short for rent, bills, etc and also getting caught stealing money from friends and family.