Behaviors that Could Indicate Drug Addiction

How Self Awareness Can Keep you Sober
Alternative and Creative Therapy Types Used in Treatment
October 16, 2017
Benefits of an aftercare program
Benefits of an Aftercare Program
October 18, 2017

Drug overdose is one of the leading causes of accidental death in the United States.  Although the addict is a master at hiding behind lies, there are certain behaviors that could signify their abuse of illicit drugs.  If we can put more focus into understanding the signs of addiction, we may be able to prevent unnecessary fatalities by offering help before it is too late.  

There is an endless list of substances that people can become addicted to.  In addition, there are various ways that these drugs can enter the human body.  Drugs are chemicals, and these chemicals target the reward system in the brain, typically by releasing a higher amount of dopamine, which can cause euphoria and extreme pleasure.  When the drugs wear off and these feelings begin to subside, the addict is always seeking to get them back.  Each method of use can cause different reactions so there will be various physical symptoms to look for based upon that.  

Drugs can be used a number of different ways including snorting, intravenous, smoking, or oral ingestion.  Each can cause a different type of high, and different symptoms.  An addict who snorts drugs frequently may have a constantly runny nose, as if they have a cold, and might even get frequent nosebleeds.  When drugs are taken intravenously, it is typically, but not always, done through the veins on the arms.  Therefore, there will be track marks, or many different points of entry in various places that have left small scabs or scars.  The use of a drug via smoking can cause severe respiratory problems and lung damage.  A person who frequently smokes may constantly cough and some drugs may even block air from entering the lungs altogether, resulting in death.  Smoking can also cause tooth erosion, which may ultimately end in tooth loss.  Oral ingestion of drugs can make symptoms harder to pinpoint, because there will be less physical indicators, yet there will be more mental attributes to watch out for.

The uses of substances can cause severe psychological issues, and these can sometimes be the first indication of drug abuse.  A person who is addicted to drugs will be happy while on the drug but once its effects have diminished, they can become extremely agitated and irritable, even be paranoid and have severe anxiety. A person who is coming off of drugs can feel very depressed and tired, likely to want to sleep for a long period of time.  The combination of these physical and mental effects caused by drugs are usually too much bear, which is why the addict continues to use so they will never have to feel the detrimental effects.      

The Kimberly Center is a place for healing. We welcome you to our treatment programs for substance dependence and abuse where the number one goal is restoring your or your loved one to live a healthier, happier, and more productive life. A life free from substance dependence and destructive behaviors waits. Call us now for information on our programs of treatment and start your journey today: 855-452-3683

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *