Warning Signs of Drug Addiction

Life can seem as though it’s a constant battle these days with so many pressures and difficulties pushing in from every side. It is hard enough for an individual to steer clear of threats and problems but for a family, things can be even tougher. The hectic pace of modern life means that we can’t always be there for each other, and this may mean that we can miss out on many of the tell-tale warning signs of lives taking a difficult turn.

A good example of this would be the use of drugs, which are now fairly prevalent in modern society. Even though the dangers of drugs are well-known, it can be all too easy for people – especially impressionable teenagers and young adults – to fall into the trap of experimenting, which inevitably leads to taking such substances all too regularly. Drug addiction is a serious problem in many parts of the world and an ever increasing threat in the United Kingdom, which is why it is important to be aware of some of the warning signs of drug addiction. Keeping a vigilant eye out for loved ones can often be the most important thing you do.

Get to know the tell-tale signs

Some of the tell-tale signs of drug addition can be indicators for other behavioural changes or illnesses too. This is why there is a need to tread carefully, but also to being aware of the potential problems and just knowing that there is drug addiction support available can be of great benefit.

The following signs are common tell-tale signs to look out for:

Physical Changes:

• Change in sleeping patterns
• Rapid weight gain or loss
• Bruises on the skin
• Agitated or slurred speech
• Deterioration in appearance or poor hygiene
• Being ill more frequently
• Suffering more injuries or accidents

Behavioural Changes:

• Lying
• Depression
• Emotional instability
• Money or valuables going missing
• Secretive phone calls or online communication
• Being absent from school or work
• Missing out on responsibilities at school or work
• Avoiding eye contact with others
• Carrying out secretive behaviour
• Hearing of intoxication at school or work
• Locking doors at home
• Changing friends, peers or social groups

Looking at that list, it is easy to see that many of these aspects can be dismissed as everyday life for people as they grow up or go through changes but when many of these aspects occur at the same time, it may be cause for concern.

If you have reason to believe that someone you love is experimenting with drugs or facing drug addiction, it is important to seek out support for drug abuse. Having the right information and support behind you can give you the strength to overcome these problems or to give the strength to others to help them realise that there is more to life than drugs.

Of course, different people have different reasons for turning to drugs, which makes it more difficult to resolve from that angle at first but being able to provide support and help can be a very strong factor in turning people’s lives around. It’s important to remember you are never alone.

Local support can make a big difference

The internet has helped greatly in sharing information concerning addiction and drug abuse, but there is often a need for hands-on support from those who have experienced the fallout from addiction first hand.

Being able to sit down with people in similar situations and to share experiences can make a massive difference and this is where a local support group can really help people. If you are based locally, there are a number of organisations providing drug abuse help in Luton, and these support groups will give you the opportunity to feel more confident about your situation and give you the tools to overcome your problems.

Stepping Stones provide support for addiction in Luton, allowing you to receive support from experts fully trained in these matters, whilst receiving help and support for addition from others who have been through the same process. Addiction support, whether it is for the person undergoing the drug addiction or for the people around them that care for them, is crucial in giving people the chance to turn their life around. The fact that so many other people have been in a similar situation and have managed to regain control of their life should serve as an inspiration that you and your loved ones can do the same.

Drug addiction can be a terrible thing but it needn’t be something that ruins your life or takes away the opportunity of a bright future. With the right level of support and assistance, these battles can be overcome and won.

Contact Stepping Stones today for more information on some of the support we are able to offer.