Signs & Symptoms Of Substance Abuse

Things You Need To Know

It is estimated that more than 18 million people who use alcohol and 5 million who use illicit drugs need substance abuse treatment.  Alcoholism and drug addiction are often seen as moral failings & evidence of a weak character with lack of self-control.

Sometimes the person who drinks too much or who uses drugs is a family member, a friend, church member, or co-worker.  This “Give ‘Em the Facts” fact sheet was expressly prepared for our callers/customers who suspect that someone close is addicted to some substance.    

You are not alone. 

By current estimates, more than 72 million people in the United States have been exposed to alcoholism in the family.  Experts indicate that for every person with an alcohol or drug problem, at least four others are affected by their behavior.  In   Tennessee that could be an estimated one point one million people.  Alcohol & drug problems can affect every one of us regardless of age, race, sex, marital status, income level, place of residence, or life style.

Most people won’t walk up to someone they’re close to and ask for help.  In fact, they will probably do everything possible to deny or hide the problem.  

How can I tell if someone I know has a problem with alcohol and or drugs?  

At times it’s tough to tell.  If your friend or family member has one or more of the following signs, he or she may have a problem with drugs or alcohol: 

Constantly talking about using drugs or drinking

Unusual flare-ups or outbreaks of temper or unusual depression

Abrupt changes in work attendance, grades, discipline, quality of work

Irrational behavior often bordering on paranoia

General changes in overall attitude

Lying about things, or the amount of drugs or alcohol they are using

Getting in trouble with the law

Suspension from school for an alcohol-or-drug related incident

Secretive behavior regarding actions or possessions; poorly concealed attempts to avoid attention and suspicion such as frequent trips to closets, restrooms, storage rooms, basements (to use drugs)

Stealing items from home or employer

Association with known drug users

Deterioration of physical appearance and grooming

Unable to cope with stress and frustration

Frequent “reddish” eyes, frequent puffy and/or droopy eyelids

Constantly wears sunglasses

Taking risks, including driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, sexual risks

Feeling run-down, hopeless, depressed, or even suicidal.

Many of the signs, such as sudden changes in mood, difficulty in getting along with others, poor job or school performance, irrationality, and depression, might be explained by other causes.  Unless you observe drug use or excessive drinking, it can be hard to determine the cause of these problems.  Therefore, you need to contact a qualified alcohol and drug professional in your area that can give you further advice.  

How can I tell if I have a problem with alcohol and drugs? 

You may have a problem with alcohol or drugs, if:

• You drink or use drugs alone

• You can’t predict whether or not you will use drugs or get drunk.

• You turn to alcohol and/or drugs after a confrontation or argument, or to leave uncomfortable feelings.

• You remember how last night began, but not how it ended, so you’re worried you may have a problem.

• You believe that in order to have fun you need to drink and/or use drugs.

• You make promises to yourself or others that you’ll stop getting drunk or using drugs.

• You feel alone, miserable, scared, and depressed.

• You have trouble at work or school because of your drug use or drinking.

• You drink more or use more drugs to get the same effect that you got with smaller amounts.

If you have experienced any of the above problems, help is available.  More than a million Americans like you have taken charge of their lives and are living healthy and drug-free. 

How Can I get Help? 

You can get help for yourself, a friend, family member or co-worker from State and local organizations, hotlines (TN. REDLINE 1-800-889-9789), referral centers (TAADAS Statewide Clearinghouse), and treatment centers across the state or country.  There are various types of treatment centers or services. Substance abuse treatment is effective for many people and can decrease or end the use of alcohol and other drugs, resulting in increased productivity and a better quality of life.  

Remember, some people may go through treatment a number of times before they are in full recovery.  Do not give up hope! 

For more information or referrals to substance treatment or other related services contact:

The Clearinghouse is funded by the TN. Dept. of Health.

Source: U.S. DHHS, TSC, 10/00