10 Signs and Symptoms of Drug Addiction

Statista estimates that 296 million people worldwide use illegal drugs, with about 39.5 million of those individuals labeled “problem users.” The data highlights just how widespread substance abuse is and the need for assertive action. Addiction is characterized by a compulsive need to use substances despite harmful consequences, and it often leads to various physical, psychological, and social problems. The early identification of drug addiction is crucial for timely intervention and effective treatment. That’s why Resurgence Behavioral Health believes education on the 10 signs and symptoms of drug addiction is crucial to combat the issue. 

Our California-based drug treatment center is run by compassionate experts ready to help anyone caught in a cycle of substance abuse. By understanding the warning signals, we can work towards more effective prevention, treatment, and support for those struggling with addiction.

What Are 10 Signs of Drug Addiction?

According to the California Health Care Foundation, roughly 3 million Californians (or 9%) suffer from substance abuse. The high use rate makes it imperative to increase awareness of the dangers of these certain substances and provide accessible care. By understanding how to spot drug abuse, we can work towards better prevention, treatment, and support for those struggling.

Here are 10 signs and symptoms of drug addiction:

1. Increased Tolerance – As a person continues to use a substance, they may need higher doses to achieve the same effects. This is known as tolerance, and it is one of the earliest signs of addiction.
2. Cravings – An intense and compulsive desire to use the drug is a key symptom of addiction. These cravings can dominate a person’s thoughts, making it difficult to focus on anything else.
3. Neglecting Responsibilities – Individuals may miss deadlines, neglect personal hygiene, or fail to fulfill their commitments because the addiction takes priority.
4. Withdrawal – When a person stops using a drug, they may experience symptoms such as nausea, sweating, anxiety, irritability, or even seizures.
5. Changes in Appearance – These can include weight loss, poor grooming, skin issues, bloodshot eyes, or unusual body odors.
6. Risky Behavior – Addicts may engage in risky behaviors, such as driving under the influence or participating in illegal activities.
7. Social Withdrawal – Individuals may begin to withdraw from friends, family, and social activities they once enjoyed.
8. Mood Swings and Irritability – Drugs can cause drastic shifts in mood, from extreme euphoria to irritability, anxiety, or depression.
9. Secretive or Dishonest Behavior – People may lie about where they’ve been, what they’ve been doing, or how much they’ve been using to conceal their addiction.
10. Inability to Control Use – One of the hallmark signs of addiction is an inability to stop or control drug use, even when the person wants to.

Recognizing these signs early can help in getting individuals the treatment they need before the addiction leads to more serious consequences.

What Are Some Tell-Tale Signs of Drug Abusers?

Knowing how to recognize the signs of addiction can be challenging, as many behaviors associated with addiction can overlap with other issues. However, certain telltale signs can indicate someone may be struggling with substance abuse. These signs can manifest physically, behaviorally, and emotionally. 

Here are some common indicators:

Physical Signs

• Changes in Appearance – These can include weight loss or gain, neglected personal hygiene, bloodshot eyes, frequent nosebleeds, track marks, or skin changes.
• Unusual Smells – Strong chemical or sweet smells on breath, clothes, or body that could be related to drug use.

Behavioral Signs

• Changes in Social Circles – This can look like a new group of friends, social withdrawal, or frequently leaving for long periods without clear explanations.
• Neglecting Responsibilities – Users may have declining work or school performance, skip important events, or even have recurrent problems with money.
• Erratic Behavior – Individuals could be defensive, unreliable, or paranoid. 

Emotional and Psychological Signs

• Mood Swings – This can look like sudden or extreme shifts in mood, usually from euphoric highs to deep lows, irritability, or depression.
• Depression and Emotional Instability – Users may have a lack of interest in activities that once brought joy, withdraw from social situations, or express feelings of hopelessness.
• Cognitive Issues – This can include difficulty concentrating, remembering details, or following through on tasks.

If you notice more than a few of these signs in someone, it may be an indication that they are struggling with substance abuse. It’s essential to approach the situation with empathy and understanding, as addiction is a medical condition that often requires professional treatment. Encouraging open communication, offering support, and suggesting they seek professional help from a counselor, therapist, or addiction specialist can be essential in addressing the issue. 

What Does Drug-Seeking Behavior Look Like?

Drug-seeking behavior refers to actions or patterns of behavior where an individual actively attempts to obtain drugs, often by manipulating or deceiving others. This behavior can occur in various contexts, including in medical settings or among family, friends, and peers. Drug-seeking behavior is often associated with substance use disorders, where the person is compulsively driven to acquire and use drugs, regardless of the consequences.

Below are some common signs and behaviors associated with drug-seeking:

• Frequent Visits to Different Doctors or Emergency Rooms – Individuals with substance use disorders may visit different doctors or emergency rooms to obtain prescriptions for the same or similar medications, such as painkillers. The person may exaggerate or fabricate symptoms to convince a doctor they need a prescription.
• Inconsistent Stories – The individual may tell different people different versions of their symptoms, history, or need for drugs. 
• Abuse of Prescription Medications –  Someone might take higher doses or more frequently than directed. They may repeatedly ask for more potent drugs, especially when their current prescription is for something less potent.
• Obsessive Focus on Drugs – As the need for drugs takes precedence, they may neglect their responsibilities, relationships, or careers. They might continue seeking drugs despite legal, financial, or personal consequences.
• Involvement in Criminal or Risky Behavior – To acquire drugs, they might steal, commit fraud, or engage in other criminal activities.

Addiction is a chronic, relapsing condition that significantly impairs a person’s ability to control their drug use. While they may appear manipulative or deceitful, the behavior is often the result of underlying psychological and physical dependence. Compassion, understanding, and encouraging treatment options are critical in addressing both the addiction and the underlying issues that contribute to these behaviors.

What Is the Typical Behavior of an Addict?

A person abusing an addictive substance may exhibit compulsive behavior centered around obtaining and using the drug, often to the detriment of other aspects of life. One of the most prominent characteristics is preoccupation with the drug. An addict’s thoughts and actions revolve around acquiring the substance, with plans and daily routines often organized around the next “fix.” This obsessive focus may lead to denial and downplaying the severity of their problem. 

As the addiction progresses, the person can lose control and be unable to cut back or stop using. This can cause an increase in substance use and eventually risky behavior to obtain the drug once their supply depletes. Despite repeated negative consequences, the user’s behavior tends to remain fixated on maintaining their drug use, leading to chronic cycles of relapse and recovery.

Contact Resurgence to Learn More About the 10 Signs and Symptoms of Drug Addiction and Discover Treatment Options

If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of addiction early to get the help needed. Contact Resurgence Behavioral Health in California to learn more about the 10 signs and symptoms of drug addiction, which include physical, behavioral, and emotional indicators that can point to substance use disorder. 

Resurgence Behavioral Health offers a range of treatment options tailored to individual needs, from medically supervised detox to comprehensive rehabilitation programs. Our team of professionals can help you understand addiction and explore treatment paths like inpatient care, outpatient services, therapy, and support groups. Contact us today at 855-458-0050 to learn more about our addiction treatment options.

External Sources 

• Statista – Global Drug Use
• California Health Care Foundation – Health Care Almanac
• HMP Global – Drug Seekers

David Rofofsky
After growing up in New York, David chose to get help with substance abuse in California because of the state's reputation for top-tier treatment. There, he found the treatment he needed to achieve more than nine years of recovery. He's been in the drug and alcohol addiction rehab industry for eight years and now serves as the Director of Admissions for Resurgence Behavioral Health. David remains passionate about the field because he understands how hard it is to pick up the phone and ask for help. However, once the call is made, someone's life can be saved.

Research | Editorial