How would I know if someone has a drug problem?
By 'drug problem', we're talking about a situation where an individual has lost control over the use of any drug. This may involve taking more of a drug than they used to, taking a drug more frequently, or taking different kinds of drugs. This includes alcohol.
The type of symptoms that could indicate whether someone has a drug problem are if he or she:
- Denies or tries to hide his or her drinking or drug use.
- Pretends to use less drugs or alcohol that he or she really does.
- Tries to make excuses for his or her drug use or drinking.
- Denies having a problem because he or she only uses beer, cannabis or some other supposedly "harmless" substance.
- Uses more alcohol and/or other drugs than in the past.
- Avoids talking about his or her drug use and behavior when intoxicated.
- Minimizes the amount and frequency of problems related to drug use.
- Forgets or denies things that happened when he or she was intoxicated.
- Chooses friends who are heavy drinkers or drug users.
- Often drinks and/or takes drugs to relax or forget about problems.
- Behaves differently when intoxicated (perhaps louder or more aggressive than normal).
- Has problems directly related to the use of alcohol or drugs, such as accidents, financial difficulties, absenteeism, frequent illness, difficulties with work, conflicts with family and friends etc.
- Avoids social functions where alcohol and/or other drugs may not be available.
- Seems to have a low self-image and uses alcohol or other drugs to feel better.
If you believe that someone you know demonstrates any of these symptoms of problematic drug use - then you're right to be concerned about them. He or she may have other troubles as well. But drug or alcohol abuse won't solve those problems and may even make them worse.
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