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When you misuse them, you’ll experience changes in mood, level of awareness, thoughts, and feelings. They typically appear as puncture wounds, scabs, or bruises on the forearms, hands, legs, and feet. Other signs include skin infections on the injection sites and wearing long-sleeved shirts to cover track marks. Drug and alcohol addictions are diseases, but they are treatable. People who become addicted to opioids are often prescribed prescription drugs, such as painkillers, often following something like an accident or surgery. They can then start taking higher doses of those prescription drugs, which can lead to abuse.
Release of the National Addiction Treatment Salary Survey: Results from 11,000 Employees
Recognizing the physical signs of drug use is just the beginning – what comes next is equally important. The twelve signs we’ve discussed, from changes in the eyes to muscle weakness, emphasize how early detection can lead to better outcomes. Addressing dental issues early is essential, as they can complicate recovery. Treatment often combines dental care plans and oral hygiene education with addiction recovery programs. Regular dental check-ups are vital for individuals in recovery, helping track oral health progress and prevent further damage. In addition to coordination difficulties, drug use can lead to other physical signs, such as unusual smells or neglect of personal hygiene.
Social and Relationship Changes
- If you notice ongoing sleep issues, especially when combined with other physical symptoms, it’s important to seek professional help.
- By understanding the signs, concerned family members and friends can take appropriate steps to encourage treatment and provide a supportive environment.
- Alcohol use disorder is the most common type of SUD in the U.S.
Many centers now provide dual diagnosis treatment, which tackles both physical and mental health issues simultaneously. Healthcare professionals often view poor hygiene as an early warning sign of substance use 2. For instance, if someone who previously took pride in their grooming suddenly stops caring for themselves, it may signal the need for professional help. When combined with other physical symptoms, this change can provide critical clues for early intervention. Whether it’s addressing a loved one or seeking professional help, early detection can make all the difference.
How to address feelings of hopelessness in recovery
“Recognizing unusual body odors early can lead to timely intervention and effective addiction recovery.” Over time, chronic drug use may cause permanent damage to the nervous system, increasing the risk of accidents and making everyday tasks more difficult 3. Family members should pay attention to frequent tripping, unsteady walking, or avoiding activities that require physical effort 2.
It’s essential to observe any consistent and unexplained drop in their performance. Some substances can cause insomnia or make it difficult for individuals to fall asleep or stay asleep. On the other hand, certain drugs can induce excessive sleepiness or lead to irregular sleep-wake cycles. To assess a person’s risk for SUD, a healthcare professional may begin with a short screening. This may then be followed by a comprehensive evaluation and a referral to a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist. These programs can help address the root causes of substance abuse and provide strategies for managing cravings and emotions.
- If there is a legitimate reason behind the change the person should be able to let you know.
- In addition to appetite changes, drug use can also leave visible effects on skin and hair, offering more clues to potential substance abuse.
- The behavioral changes that suggest someone is struggling with drug addiction are many.
- They may be depressed when they are not high or start to look at themselves negatively.
It’s crucial to note that long-term drug use can cause permanent damage to the brain, so early intervention is key. Encourage your loved one to seek professional help and treatment as soon as possible. Remember, recovery is a journey, and each person’s experience is unique.
Using positive psychology to support addiction treatment
Muscle relaxers relieve pain, spasms, and stiffness by calming nerve activity in the brain and spinal cord. Substance use disorder is not the same thing as addiction, although the two concepts are closely connected. One commonly used short screening for substance use is the UNCOPE questionnaire. It can take time for someone to admit they need help, so be patient and keep the lines of communication open. Getting help through treatment, legal support, or talking to someone can make a difference. When it comes to navigating the journey of addiction and recovery, having a knowledgeable and…
They can help assess the situation and recommend the most suitable course of action. Remember to respect the individual’s privacy, ensuring that any discussions or decisions regarding their situation are handled with discretion. If you notice someone displaying frequent and extreme shifts in their mood, it is important to approach the situation with sensitivity and understanding.
- Whether you’re concerned for yourself or someone else, taking action now can make a difference.
- Medications can help modify your brain chemistry to help treat certain SUDs.
- Assure them that seeking help is a sign of strength and that they are not alone in their struggle.
- People with SUD may use illegal or legal drugs, including prescription medications.
What looks like addiction could be an experimental phase or a form of stress management. But a real addiction, if left untreated, can develop into a debilitating habit or increased risk of illness. By Sarah Bence, OTR/LBence is an occupational therapist with a range of work experience in mental healthcare settings. Experimenting with—or even being prescribed—a drug or substance can sometimes lead to occasional use and then Substance abuse to heavy use.
Medications can help modify your brain chemistry to help treat certain SUDs. People can speak with a primary care doctor if they experience SUD symptoms or if they are concerned about a loved one who may have an SUD. Healthcare professionals take an individualized approach to treating SUD. Healthcare professionals may perform a medical exam and take a medical history when diagnosing an SUD. Substances may be illegal or legal, such as prescription medication. In the United States, alcohol is the most commonly misused substance by people with SUD.
