Drug abuse and alcohol addiction is definitely not something to take lightly. If you think that your friend, family member or loved one might have an issue with alcohol or drugs, we recommend watching out for signs or symptoms that might confirm your suspicions. Early treatment for drug abuse and alcohol addiction is crucial for a successful recovery. Whether you are looking for a Costa Mesa rehab or simply want to learn more about drug abuse and alcohol addiction, we suggest looking for the following signs and symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of drug abuse and alcohol addiction

You’ve noticed in a family member, friend or loved one:

● Neglecting responsibilities. If your loved one is neglecting responsibilities at work, at school or at home, this might be a sign that they are abusing drugs or alcohol. For example, they are skipping work or class, failing a class or neglecting their children.
● Legal ramifications. Another sign is that their drug or alcohol use is having legal ramifications, like arrests for disorderly conduct, driving under the influence or stealing to support an alcohol or drug habit.
● Problems in relationships. Another sign is that their drug or alcohol use is causing issues in their relationships, including the loss of old friends, an unhappy boss or manager or fights with their partners or family members.
● Abandoning activities. If your loved one is abandoning activities that used to be enjoyed, like hobbies, socializing or sports, this is a sign that they might be struggling with drugs or alcohol.
● Increased agitation or irritability. If you notice that your loved one is becoming more agitated or irritable when engaging in common social interactions, this is a sign that they could be struggling with addiction.

You have noticed in yourself:

● Needing more of a drug or alcohol. If you find that you need to use more of a drug or alcohol to experience the same effects that used to be achieved with smaller amounts, then this is a sign of drug or alcohol abuse.
● Using under dangerous conditions. If you find that you are using drugs or alcohol under dangerous conditions or taking risks while you are high or drunk, then this is a sign that you could have a problem. For example, if you are driving under the influence, using dirty needles or having unprotected sex, you might have a problem with drugs or alcohol.
● Going too long without drugs or alcohol causes symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms like nausea, restlessness, insomnia, depression, sweating, shaking and anxiety after going too long without drugs or alcohol, you might have a problem with drugs or alcohol.
● Using beyond the limit you had planned. Another sign of drug addiction or alcohol abuse is using drugs or alcohol beyond the limit you had planned, even though you told yourself that you wouldn’t. You want to stop using, but you feel powerless to stop.
● Major problems in your life. If drug or alcohol use is causing major problems in your life but you continue to use anyway, then you probably have a problem. For example, you are experiencing blackouts, mood swings, depression, paranoia or infections.