Time to introduce you to Chapter III of EDU MAP’s reference handbook for substance abuse. It examines substance abuse signs and symptoms.
Below you can see a brief list of signs of substance abuse provided by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). But beware: although there are certain emotional and physical symptoms of substance use, do not immediately assume that the person is on drugs. There could be other reasons why he or she behaves unusually.
Emotional and social signs:
- Moodiness, excitement, anger, hostility, depression
- Constant lying and stealing
- Refusing to admit to the harmful effects of drugs
- Avoiding old friends or people who could confront them about behaviour changes
- Being secretive about phone calls
- Having friends they do not want you to meet or talk about
- Being evasive about their whereabouts
- Loss of motivation
- No interest in everyday life
- Playing truant from school
Physical signs:
- Drowsiness
- Trembling
- Red eyes, dilated pupils
- Lack of interest in personal hygiene and appearance
- Slurred speech
- Loss of, or increase in appetite
- Uncoordinated movements
- Circles under the eyes
- Irregular sleeping habits
- Frequent colds and coughs
- Weight loss
Photo by Dan Meyers on Unsplash
Source: https://www.unodc.org/drugs/get-the-facts/signs-of-drug-use.html
