What Are Behavioral Signs of Substance Abuse?

When someone is abusing substances, it can be challenging to recognize whether or not they have a problem. People can become very good at hiding their habits from their loved ones. In many instances, if a person does not see that their substance abuse is harming them, they can be in denial with themselves and with others. Confronting a loved one over their addiction isn’t easy. However, it can be the push they need to get help for substance abuse. Gulf Breeze Recovery understands how difficult it can be to watch your loved one struggle with addiction. We’re here to provide the care and support our guests need to become sober safely and effectively.

What Are Substance Use Disorder Behavioral Signs?

A person who has abused substances for some time becomes good at concealing the extent of their misuse. People can appear to be functioning normally, but under the surface, they have a significant problem. If you suspect you or someone in your life is dealing with substance abuse, pay attention to specific behavioral patterns. These can indicate whether there is a need to seek out professional help.

Some common behavioral signs of substance abuse are:

• Poor performance at work or school
• Changes in behavior, such as a desire for more privacy
• Spending more money than usual or asking to borrow money more often
• Changes in physical appearance
• A lack of energy in regular daily activities
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Issues managing finances

Behavioral signs of substance abuse can also vary according to the specific substance. Understanding the signs of commonly abused substances can also help you identify if someone is living with addiction.

Signs of Heroin Abuse

Heroin is an opioid drug made from morphine that is highly potent and addictive. Some of the behavioral signs of heroin abuse are below.

• Increased need for sleep
• Engaging in risky behaviors
• Wearing long sleeves or pants even in warm weather
• Slurred speech
• Bursts of hyperactivity
• Picking at skin
• Possession of injection paraphernalia, such as syringes and hypodermic needles

If you notice a combination of these signs, it could indicate that your loved one is abusing heroin.

Signs of Cocaine Abuse

Below are signs of cocaine abuse. Cocaine is a central nervous system stimulant that speeds up the messages traveling between your brain and throughout the rest of your body. It’s often used at parties, clubs, and raves. Symptoms of cocaine abuse include:

• Restless energy or an inability to sit still
• An inability to recall events
• Seeming exhausted even if they haven’t done any physical activity
• Acting confused or disoriented
• Being more talkative
• Needing less food or sleep

These behavioral signs could identify if someone is abusing cocaine.

Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription medications are prescribed to treat symptoms of various injuries, ailments, and disorders. When used as directed, they can be an effective form of treatment. However, some have a high potential for misuse, which can escalate into substance abuse and experimentation with more dangerous substances.

• Taking a higher dose than what is prescribed
• Borrowing prescription medication from others
• Doctor shopping or visiting multiple doctors to obtain a new prescription
• Stealing or forging prescriptions
• Going through prescriptions at a faster rate than what is directed
• Stashing medication in various locations throughout the home

Look out for these behaviors if you suspect someone is misusing their prescriptions.

Signs of Alcohol Abuse

While alcohol is a legal substance for adults, it’s still addictive. Behavioral signs that indicate you or a loved one is misusing alcohol include:

• Decreased physical hygiene
• Abnormally passive or argumentative behaviors
• Smelling of alcohol on your breath or clothes
• Slurred speech
• Coordination problems
• Changes in sleeping pattern
• Regularly appearing intoxicated

If you recognize a combination of these signs, then a person’s drinking habits could be harmful.

What Are Adolescent Substance Abuse Symptoms?

It can be particularly challenging to recognize the behavioral signs of substance abuse in adolescents, as moodiness and irritability are already common for teens. If you’re concerned your teen may be abusing substances, pay attention to whether they are:

• Associating with different peers
• Missing class
• Skipping school
• Changing their eating and sleeping habits

Additionally, watch for sudden drops in academic performance or loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed.

Get Help for Substance Abuse Today at Gulf Breeze Recovery

If you or a loved one is displaying substance use disorder behavioral signs, consider reaching out to a professional treatment center. You can contact Gulf Breeze Recovery at 833.551.2304 or by completing our online contact form to begin receiving help.