The Ten Warning Signs of Drug Abuse

When suspecting drug abuse, look for a change in attitude, relationships, and eating and sleeping patterns. Work or school performance, a new need for privacy, an increased need for money, and a habit of dishonesty may also point toward abuse. Drug paraphernalia is another big indication of drug use.

Patterns

Changes in eating and sleeping patterns could indicate drug use. For example, a loss or gain in appetite or being overly sleepy or lethargic.

Relationships and performance

Avoiding old friends or refusing to introduce old friends to current friends is another warning sign. Work or school performance may decrease, and a drug abuser may arrive late more often than usual.

Privacy and dishonesty

A new or increased desire for privacy is another warning sign, as is constant dishonesty or vagueness in answering questions.

Moody

An abuser may appear moodier than usual. She may be more irritable or overly sensitive.

Attitude

Look for an attitude change. An abuser may demonstrate an indifferent attitude or a lack of motivation for previous interests.

Money and paraphernalia

A drug user may seem to need money often, and evidence of drug use, such as burned tinfoil or syringes, may appear.

References

• Signs of drug use in teens
• Signs of perscription drug abuse