The causes and symptoms of drug addiction
The media sometimes portrays drug addicts as edgy, dangerous, idealistic and even cool, but the truth about drug use is far from glamorous. If you are worried that someone you know and care about may have a drug addiction then the information below may be of use to you.
The causes of drug addiction
Genetic factors: If someone has a family history of drug addiction, there is a high possibility that they may succumb to it also. Genetics play a very important role, in addition to one’s environment, in determining drug addiction.
History of mental illness: Mental illness can be worsened by drug abuse. It can also create new symptoms. Drug abuse and mental illness are very often linked.
Untreated physical or emotional pain: In the absence of proper medication, pain alleviating drugs used as a substitute can become highly addictive.
Peer pressure: Younger people may be susceptible to drug abuse and addiction if they are surrounded by people who use drugs.
Symptoms of drug addiction and abuse
• Increased energy, restlessness and an inability or unwillingness to sleep.
• Slow speech and movement. Slow reaction time and impaired judgments.
• Sudden weight loss or weight gain.
• Wearing of long sleeved shirts and clothing in order to hide scar marks and sites of injections.
• Lack of interest in things one used to enjoy.
• Sightings of drug paraphernalia, such as roach clips, pipes and syringes.
These are a few of the many signs to look for to identify drug addiction and abuse. If you establish any positive instances of drug abuse you should talk to a GP.
