Are you developing a drug addiction? 6 signs to watch for
More than 20 million people in America are struggling with a substance use disorder, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. On top of that, drug overdose deaths have jumped 35 percent since 2015. The most recent numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates roughly 88,000 overdose deaths from September 2019 to August 2020.
Experts are now considering drug addiction as an epidemic, a public health crisis which has risen steadily as early as 1999. In its wake, substance abuse has ravaged communities and torn apart families. The greatest harm happens to the individuals who become dependent on a substance. But how do you know if you are developing an addiction?
Misuse is common with alcohol, over-the-counter drugs, prescriptions and illicit drugs but it can occur with many other substances. The warning signs of addiction are often there but hidden in plain sight. For some, it began with over-prescribed pain medications from a doctor. For others, it began as occasional and recreational fun with friends which turned into a dangerous habit. No matter how it started, you can spot the symptoms and get help. Here are six signs to watch for in case you may have an addictive relationship to a substance.
Less time with family and friends
Our social circles are one of the best forms of community whether it’s going to a picnic or simply grabbing a coffee. We rely on those networks for mutual bonding, accountability and sources of joy. However, increased drug use may want you to hide away from loved ones or to stop seeing them all together. If you find yourself wanting to spend more time taking part in a substance rather than enjoying time with your friends and family, this behavior is a red flag.
Changes in appearance and bodily functions
Are you not eating like you used to, or are you skipping meals? Some addictions will cause you to decrease your desire to eat. Drastic weight loss and changes in how you look follow as a result — to the point where people may not instantly recognize you.
Drug use can affect everything from one’s appetite to the brain’s chemical balance to dental health. Stimulants, such as heroin, cocaine and meth, can lead to dry mouth, as well as tooth decay and gum disease. For women, the overuse of opioids may affect their periods, causing irregular frequencies or changes in menstrual flow.
Anxiousness and irritability
Drug use not only takes a physical toll, but it also affects your mood. You may find that your patience runs thin or you’re more irritable, snapping at those around you for minor offenses. Some people experience highs and lows when a substance has become a constant chemical in their bodies. Having mood swings is a typical symptom. Be mindful if you catch yourself having a short fuse or becoming more anxious than usual.
Feeling out of sorts
Your acquaintances may have pointed out how you’re out of sorts or unlike yourself at times. If this is true, it may stem from your substance use. Do you feel like you need drugs to function — and you will be fine once you do? While some individuals seem to function normally with their substance use, others can’t live their lives day-to-day until they act on their urges.
Neglecting personal needs or responsibility
When your desire for drugs forces you to neglect your responsibilities, consider these actions as an indicator of a bigger issue. Self-neglect can take many forms, such as missing work, feeling less interested in hobbies and failing to pay bills on time.
For users of hard drugs, they may let go of their personal hygiene routines. Some will even become deceptive or make excuses, leaving personal affairs unattended, to take drugs when their addiction has hit a critical level. Caring for yourself should never take a backseat.
Failed attempts at quitting or cutting back
We’ve all made rules of moderation when we want to place limits on ourselves, especially when we overindulge too often on things we enjoy. Maybe you’ve done the same with your substance use, telling yourself you will use less or cut back totally. But overcoming addiction often takes more than willpower.
Quitting “cold turkey” or stopping abruptly has little success once dependency has set in. Even more unsettling is the severe withdrawal symptoms that kick in for users of prescription painkillers, heroin and alcohol. If you are unable to quit through your own efforts, this is another sign you may need more help.
Oftentimes, people battle addiction silently or deny a problem exists at all. Good news is that federal dollars are on the way to help. The White House has enacted a drug policy plan as an urgent priority in hopes of curbing addiction, substance abuse and ultimately fatalities. The Biden administration will dedicate $1.65 billion in grant funding for substance abuse prevention and treatment in its first-year plan. But there’s no need to wait until those funds make it into treatment facilities. You might start your journey to recovery by taking this free and confidential mental health psychological evaluation and assessment.
The road ahead may seem unclear, lonely or impossible but many people have kicked bad habits — and you can be one of them. Feel free to reach out to us to make that first step in the right direction.
