Where to turn in times of need.
If you are worried that someone you care about is struggling with substance use and is in need of assistance, please contact one of the following agencies for help:
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Does someone I care about have a problem?
1. Does the person take the drug in larger amounts or for longer than intended?
2. Do they want to cut down or stop using the drug but can’t?
3. Do they spend a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from the drug?
4. Do they have cravings and urges to use the drug?
5. Are they unable to manage responsibilities at work, home, or school because of drug use?
6. Do they continue to use a drug, even when it causes problems in relationships?
7. Do they give up important social, recreational, or work-related activities because of drug use?
8. Do they use drugs again and again, even when it puts them in danger?
9. Do they continue to use, even while knowing that a physical or mental problem could have been caused or made worse by the drug?
10. Do they take more of the drug to get the wanted effect?
11. Have they developed withdrawal symptoms, which can be relieved by taking more of the drug? (Some withdrawal symptoms can be obvious, but others can be more subtle—like irritability or nervousness.)
Signs and Symptoms
of Drug Use
People often believe that they are in control of how much and how often they take a drug. However, because of the effect drugs have on the brain, those who use drugs suddenly need the drugs just to feel normal. This is addiction and it quickly takes over your life.
Someone using drugs may show the following symptoms:
Isolation
Loss of interest
Poor hygiene
Fatigue
Nervous or irritable
Overly energetic
Abnormal sleeping habits
Eating more or less than usual
Learn more about addiction at drugabuse.gov
Child and Adolescent
Drug and alcohol use should not be consider “typical teen behavior.” Looking for behavioral changes in your child can help you understand if there is a cause for concern.
Such behavioral changes may include:
Growing tension with family or friends
Avoiding eye contact
Breaking curfew or disappearing for lengths of time
Secretive phone use
Sudden increased appetite
Excessive use of over-the-counter eye drops to reduce redness or irritation
Unexplained lack of coordination
Unexplained dents and damage to vehicle
