Alcohol and Illicit Drug Abuse: Do You Know the Warning Signs?

Adapted from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration by ]]>Karen Schroeder, MS, RD]]>

Most people using drugs or alcohol may not ask for help. In fact, they will probably do everything possible to deny or hide the problem. Or, they may not realize that they have a problem. The following behaviors are signs that someone is using drugs or abusing alcohol:

Getting high on drugs or getting drunk on a regular basis
Having to use more alcohol, marijuana, or other illicit drugs to get the same effects
Lying about the amount of drugs or alcohol they are using
Lying about other things, even unimportant things
Avoiding friends and family in order to get high or drunk
Giving up activities they used to do such as sports, hobbies, or homework
No longer spending time with friends who don't use drugs or drink and/or spending more time with people who do
Constantly talking about using drugs or drinking
Believing that in order to have fun they need to drink or use marijuana or other drugs
Pressuring others to use drugs or drink
Getting into trouble with the law
Taking risks, including sexual risks and driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
Changes in mood, such as becoming more irritable
Feeling run-down, hopeless, depressed, or even suicidal
Suspension from school for an alcohol- or drug-related incident
Missing work or poor work performance because of drinking or drug use
Arguing with family and friends; having difficulty getting along with others

Many of the signs may be explained by other causes. Unless you observe drug use or excessive drinking, it can be hard to determine the cause of these problems. Even if you are unsure, you may want to talk to your friend or family member about the behaviors you have observed and express your concern, without focusing on alcohol and drugs. You can contact a qualified alcohol and drug professional in your area for further advice.

Resources

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
http://www.samhsa.gov/

National Institute on Drug Abuse
http://www.drugabuse.gov/

Partnership for a Drug-Free America
http://www.drugfreeamerica.org/

Source

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
http://www.samhsa.gov/

Last reviewed September 2003 by ]]>Richard Glickman-Simon, MD]]>

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.