Substance-use concerns can look different from person to person. The signs below are general information, not a diagnosis.
If several changes are present or you are worried about someone, consider speaking with a qualified healthcare professional. Here are 10 possible signs to notice:
1. Sudden Behavioral Changes
A person who was once cheerful and social suddenly becomes withdrawn, secretive, or unusually agitated. Unexplained mood swings, irritability, or drastic personality changes are common early signs of addiction.
2. Neglecting Responsibilities
Missing work, school, or family obligations without reasonable explanation. Performance drops significantly, deadlines are missed, and important commitments are repeatedly forgotten.
3. Financial Problems
Requesting money frequently, borrowing from friends and family, unexplained financial difficulties, or even stealing to fund substance use. Money seems to disappear without explanation.
4. Physical Health Deterioration
Unexplained weight loss or gain, deteriorating physical appearance, poor hygiene, bloodshot eyes, unusual smells, or visible marks on the body (especially arms in case of injecting substances).
5. Social Isolation
Withdrawing from family, friends, and activities they once enjoyed. Replacing old friends with a new group that enables substance use. Avoiding social gatherings or family events.
6. Tolerance and Increased Use
Needing increasingly larger amounts of a substance to achieve the same effect. This is a hallmark sign of developing addiction — the body builds tolerance over time.
7. Failed Attempts to Stop
Repeatedly trying and failing to cut down or stop substance use. Making promises to stop but being unable to follow through despite genuine desire to do so.
8. Withdrawal Symptoms
Experiencing physical or psychological symptoms when not using the substance — nausea, trembling, sweating, anxiety, insomnia, or intense cravings. These are signs of physical dependence.
9. Deception and Secretive Behavior
Lying about whereabouts, hiding substances, keeping secrets, or becoming defensive when asked about their habits. Trust breaks down significantly in relationships.
10. Continuing Despite Negative Consequences
Continuing to use substances despite clearly understanding the harm being caused — to relationships, health, career, or legal standing. This loss of control is the defining feature of addiction.
Recognized Any of These Signs?
Consider speaking with a qualified healthcare professional. You can also contact Astitva to ask about its listed rehabilitation services. In an emergency, contact local emergency services.
Contact Astitva: +91-7906138833