Could you be suffering from drug addiction? Is your loved one battling substance use disorder? It’s not always easy to tell. Many people with addiction can still work or go to school. They may be able to participate in their life and maintain responsibilities. They may not look drunk or high – yet, they are facing dependence and addiction that’s limiting their ability to thrive.

The following are some of the most common symptoms of drug addiction. If you see these in yourself or in your loved one, reach out to learn more about addiction treatment.

#1: Constantly Thinking About Using Drugs

A person with addiction and dependence feels a desperate need to seek out substances. This becomes overwhelming over time. It may seem impossible to survive without knowing when your next access will be. Some people find themselves unable to prioritize just about anything else because of how important and essential using substances has become.

#2: Physical Changes

Most people will go through a significant physical change as the toxins from substances build up and the addiction becomes more severe. At first, you may notice small things that could indicate a decline: 

• Slurring speech
• Increased impulsiveness
• Itching or discomfort in various areas of the body
• Development of pain without injury
• Bloodshot eyes
• Frequent sniffling or feeling ill

The body changes significantly during addiction. Over time, a person may suffer from increased health complications, including feeling ill more often. Over time, liver, kidney, and heart problems may develop.

#3: Lying 

People with addiction often find themselves lying to make excuses for their behaviors and experiences. Lying can become a habit. Over time, it may even become impossible to know the truth, and that often leads to a breakdown of trust in relationships. You may be lying to family and friends, your employer, and yourself. 

#4: Personality Changes

The progression of drug and alcohol addiction often leads to personality changes. A person may become more reckless and dramatic. Others may develop what seems like intense mood swings. They may no longer like the same things they used to. Some people become more withdrawn and pull away from loved ones. Others become very outgoing/manic, constantly focused on their drug use.

#5: Financial Difficulties 

Drug addiction is expensive. Those who are in constant need of money may be battling addiction and need financial support to make continued use possible. Some people find themselves stealing, begging for money, or pawning valuables because they need to be able to purchase substances. They may also be struggling to maintain a job as a result of their continued use.

#6: Problems at Work

Most people will find that, over time, it is hard to maintain a job. They may be trying – even getting to work each day and getting through tasks. Yet employers may notice changes, such as being late with assignments, not doing the same level of work they used to, and having trouble getting along with other employees. Sometimes it’s not easy to see that an employer is noticing these changes, but chances are good that they are.

#7: Changes in Appearance

As a disease, addiction impacts people in various ways, and oftentimes this leads to physical changes. Some of the most common include:

• Significant weight loss or weight gain
• Lack of personal hygiene 
• Decline in overall health
• Changes in clothing and style
• Less focus on maintaining their appearance when leaving the home

#8: Recluse Behavior

One of the most profound symptoms of drug addiction in some people is their need to be alone. They may not have always been like this, but they’ve become distant and unavailable. This type of private behavior can seem worrisome, especially if it is a dramatic change from who they were. If a person is no longer answering their phone, involving themselves in family activities, or sharing openly like they used to, that’s a concern.

#9: Struggling with Limits

A person with the inability to control how much they are using substances may also be struggling with addiction and dependence. For example, they may say they will have just one drink, but they cannot control this, no matter how much they try. They run out of prescription medications too soon. They may be struggling with limits on how often they use or how much.

#10: Withdrawal Symptoms 

A person with dependence will feel withdrawal symptoms within hours of no longer using the substance. These are often intense cravings accompanied by physical symptoms such as nausea, muscle aches, sweating, fatigue, and more. 

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms of addiction, now is the best time to take action. Reach out to the Ranch at Dove Tree to learn more about how we can help you with drug addiction treatment in Lubbock, Texas.