Did you know that 17.8% of Americans who are 12 years and older are using illegal drugs? Substance abuse is a widespread problem that shouldn’t be taken lightly because it causes people to risk harmful consequences to their health, school, job, and relationships.
How Can You Tell If Someone You Know Is Addicted to Specific Drugs?
Although some drugs can be more addictive than others, it’s extremely important to recognize the common signs of substance abuse early on before the addiction takes hold. If you suspect that a family member, friend or coworker is abusing certain drugs, you’ll need to watch out for these signs and symptoms that might clue you in:
Marijuana or Cannabis
The effects of marijuana and other cannabis-based products include amplified visual and auditory perceptions and euphoria. However, users may also appear to be uncoordinated, forgetful, paranoid, and suspicious. Since cannabis enhances the appetite, they may also eat more than they usually do. Their reactions may also tend to be slower. Moreover, individuals who’ve smoked marijuana often demonstrate a mellow demeanor. They appear to be relaxed and are often seen with droopy eyelids and bloodshot eyes.
Stimulants
People who are using stimulating drugs such as cocaine often exhibit increased energy, aggression, frequent changes in their behavior, and rambling or rapid speech. Furthermore, their pupils may be dilated and their breathing rate may be fast. Some users may also show signs of hostility or paranoia. Those who snort the drug often experience nasal congestion because of the damage it causes to the person’s mucous membranes inside the nose.
Hallucinogens
The signs and symptoms of the use of this type of drug may vary depending on the specific hallucinogen that’s being used. For instance, a person who smokes, snorts, injects or ingests phencyclidine (PCP) or “angel dust” may not be able to feel pain and may become very intolerant to loud noises. People who use psilocybin or “magic mushrooms” may present signs that include muscle twitching and nausea. They may also experience hallucinations and they may also find it challenging to tell the difference between reality and hallucinations. Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is another hallucinogen that causes users to act impulsively. Anyone who’s on hallucinogens demonstrates drowsiness and a state of panic or peace.
Opioids
Opioids, such as OxyContin and Vicodin are prescribed to treat those who are in a great deal of physical pain. Heroin, a known illicit drug, is also an opioid. Users may present symptoms that include problems with concentration, slower reaction times, mood swings, lethargy, memory issues, and overall sedation. Since these drugs slow down the digestive system, users tend to become constipated or experience other intestinal problems. A day without using the drug will leave the users anxious and exhibiting flu-like symptoms.
Barbiturates and Benzodiazepines
These drugs are often used to treat patients who are struggling with anxiety and certain sleep disorders. Xanax and Valium are among the common benzodiazepine medications prescribed by doctors. On the other hand, barbiturates are used to address seizure disorders during surgical procedures. Compare to benzodiazepines, barbiturates carry a higher risk of overdose. Someone who abuses these types of drugs may show signs of depression and may appear dizzy or uninhibited. In most cases, the user may experience balance issues, blurry vision, involuntary eye movements (nystagmus), and general confusion.
Club Drugs
Three of the most common types of club drugs include ketamine, ecstasy, and gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). Individuals who use it may experience dizziness, poor coordination, increased body temperature, excessive sweating, clenched teeth, and slurring while speaking.
Why is it Important to Recognize the Signs of Substance Abuse Charlotte?
What usually begins as an experimental use of illicit drugs in social settings can quickly turn into a full-blown issue with substance abuse Charlotte. A person who uses dangerous drugs will increase his chances of attaining successful recovery if early intervention is done.
When someone you know displays the signs mentioned above, we encourage you to stage an intervention or to seek the help of a healthcare professionals in Charlotte NC by getting in touch with the team of experts at The Blanchard Institute. At Blanchard, substance abuse Charlotte is treated as a fatal disease. For this reason, the facility strives to provide healing, hope, and education while using evidence-based treatment that’s effective within the family dynamic.