Warning Signs/SYMPTOMS ⚠︎︎

  • Signs that someone else might have  a drug addiction:
    • Aggression 
    • Changes in attitude & personality 
    • Dramatic changes in habits 
    • Physical signs can include, but aren't limited to: 
      • Bloodshot or red eyes 
      • Dilated or constricted pupils 
      • Poor physical condition 
      • Abrupt weight changes
  • Potential signs of a substance addiction:
    • ​You need more of something to feel the intended effect (i.e: painkillers).
    • You are spending large amounts of time thinking about the drug (how you can get more, how you'll feel better after, when you'll take it next).
    • You've lost interest in things that once interested you.
    • You hide the drug use or the effect it may have on you from others.
    • You borrow or steal money to pay for the drugs. 

Risk Factors

Some may be at higher risk of substance abuse if they have experienced any of the following:
  • Environmental Factors: A chaotic household, abuse, peer influences, & more.
  • Other mental illnesses 
  • Peer pressure
  • Extreme stress
  • Lack of sleep & fatigued
  • Use of drugs at a young age
  • Family history of addiction
  • Academic failure or lack of academic motivation 
  • Alienation from peers and family
  • Pressure to excel in sports

​How to Help

  • Helping someone struggling with substance abuse:
    • Do's
      • Be consistent with rules, expectations, promises, AND consequences.
      • Make sure to give encouragement! Give verbal and physical encouragement for accomplishments. Every milestone is important! 
      • Gain education, so you know exactly how to help them.
      • Use assertive communication to find a compromise.
      • Set a healthy lifestyle example.
      • BE OPTIMISTIC & take care of your own wellness! 
    • Don'ts:
      • Don't shame the person for not being able to maintain sobriety.
      • Don't speak negatively or accusingly: This can trigger feelings of shame and guilt. 
      • Don't place the sole responsibility on them.
      • Remember that you can't fight the fight FOR them. You have to HELP them overcome it. 

Help Resources

  • American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry: CLICK HERE
  • Find a Recovery Center Near You: CLICK HERE
  • The Hopeline: CLICK HERE
  • SAMHSA National Helpline : 1-800-662- HELP (4357)
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264
  • CDC Division of Mental Health: 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636)​

More about Substance ABuse

  • What is Substance Abuse? caron.org
  • World Health Organization: who.int
  • National Institute of Mental Health: nimh.nih.gov
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: cdc.gov
  • American Psychological Association: apa.org​
  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration: samhsa.gov
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