Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
Addiction causes changes in the way a person feels and behaves. At the start of an addiction, referred to as a substance use disorder, you might feel unusually elated, stand-offish, or easily agitated. But as the addiction progresses, worrying signs such as unusual weight loss, excessive drowsiness, and increased legal troubles, can occur.
Although these signs are similar to those of mental health or physical health problems, an addiction may be to blame if a substance is involved.
Learn how Zinnia Health’s evidence-based programs can help you or your loved one overcome drug abuse and addiction safely. Our facilities offer on-site addiction treatment through our residential programs, as well as, on-site detox, and aftercare meetings. Call us at (855) 430-9439 to learn more.
Behavioral Signs and Symptoms
The first noticeable signs of addiction are behavioral changes. Repeated substance use rewires the brain and deregulates emotions, decision-making, judgment, and motivation. This often results in drug-seeking behavior or an increase in impulsivity.
Behavior changes will vary depending on the substance used and the severity of addiction.
The following are some behavioral changes associated with drug addiction:
- Unusual mood swings
- Taking increased risks
- Memory loss
- Increased financial and legal problems
- Borrowing or stealing money
- Poor work performance
- Changes in eating habits
- Change in sleep patterns
- Valuable items go missing
Noticing these signs in yourself can make you feel helpless. You might feel angry or betrayed if you notice them in a loved one. You might feel helpless or betrayed when discovering they have an addiction. You may want to confront them, but according to the University of Rochester Medical Center, coming from a place of concern rather than anger can help.
Instead, contact a professional for advice on how to help your loved one in the most supportive way.
We understand the nature of addiction and how isolating it can be — but you’re not alone. Experts at Zinnia Health have helped thousands of people like you kick the habit for good. We have facilities nationwide that provide outpatient and residential care and holistic activities. If you’re ready to make the first step, call us at (855) 430-9439. All calls are confidential, and we will never share your information with anyone.
Physical Warning Signs and Symptoms
Repeated drug use causes large amounts of dopamine to flood the reward system in your brain. In turn, the brain creates a motivation to seek out more drugs. This motivation leads to intense cravings that supersede the need to eat or drink regularly. Over time, dopamine decreases, and the high becomes less pronounced. However, the urge to seek it continues.
When casual substance use reaches the level of addiction, you’ll notice the following warning signs:
- Puffy face
- Insomnia or inability to stay awake
- Cold, clammy hands
- Red eyes (bloodshot eyes)
- No energy or unexplained hyperactivity
- Nose bleeds
- New or worsening depression or anxiety
- Slurred speech
- Deterioration of personal appearance
- Bad smell
- Poor personal hygiene
- Needle marks or sores on the arms, legs, or feet
Addiction doesn’t just involve alcohol or illegal drugs. Misusing prescription drugs like Xanax, Klonopin, or painkillers can result in drug dependence that leads to addiction.
Getting Help for Drug Addiction
If you or one of your family members experience symptoms of addiction after prolonged drug or alcohol use, you are not alone. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, more than 20 million Americans suffer from a substance use disorder, often leading to addiction.
Even if you tried to stop using and were unsuccessful, there are many ways to kick drug addiction for good.
Inpatient detox, medication-assisted detox, residential care, and outpatient care are all viable options for reaching sobriety. Research shows that attics attending these programs are less likely to relapse or suffer severe withdrawal symptoms.
If you or someone you know is dependent on opioids, benzodiazepines, or another substance, quitting abruptly could trigger withdrawal symptoms. Our health professionals at Zinnia Health provide addiction medicine like methadone to minimize this risk. To learn more about our medically-supervised detox program, call us at (855) 430-9439.