Substance abuse just like any other disease or illness has a number of signs and symptoms that people can use to notice if they or a loved one might be suffering from an addiction. As with any type of illness or disease symptoms of substance abuse can vary from person to person, so what one person has another person might not exhibit. Here’s a look at some of the signs and symptoms that there could be substance abuse going on.
Neglecting Responsibilities. One of the biggest signs and symptoms of a substance abuse problem is if the person is neglecting the regular responsibilities that they would normally not be neglecting. This could be neglecting their workload, school work, household chores and even their parenting responsibilities. These people are neglecting their responsibilities in favor of using drugs or alcohol.
Dangerous Conditions. Drug and alcohol users will normally start to use their substance under dangerous conditions and have no regard for the conditions of their in. Many users will start putting themselves in dangerous positions such as using dirty needles, taking drugs they have no idea of, drinking alcohol and driving and even having dangerous sexual encounters. These dangerous conditions are usually a result of the substance abuser not being able to properly assess the situation due to being under the influence of the drug or alcohol.
Legal Trouble. Getting into legal trouble is a very common sign that there could be substance abuse going on. Constant legal trouble ranging from driving under the influence, stealing, disorderly conduct and other types of legal issues can often be assigned that there is a serious problem with substance abuse.
Problems with Relationships. Another common sign that there could be a problem with substance abuse is a developing problem with relationships. These people will normally have had good relationships with these people but due to the drugs or alcohol the relationships are strained. This could range from having a strained relationship with their friends or family, coworkers and boss, and even neighbors.
