Signs and Dangers of Addiction

Physical Symptoms

Loss of appetite or change in eating habits, bloated or puffy look, unexplained weight loss or gain.
Lethargy, slowed or staggering gait, dizziness, slurred speech.
Extreme hyperactivity, rapid speech, wild or jerking movements, seizures, disorientation.
Red, watery eyes; drooping eyelids; runny nose; persistent and hacking cough.
Tremors or shaking hands, feet, or head; extreme nervousness or agitation (these may signal physical withdrawal symptoms).
Nausea, vomiting, excessive sweating unexplained by presence of another illness.
Needle marks (“tracks”) on lower arm, lower leg, or bottom of feet (to avoid detection).
Insomnia or excessive sleeping at inappropriate times.
Noticeable change in personal grooming habits; sloppy, dirty, or unkempt appearance.

Personality changes, unexplained violent or bizarre behavior.
Changes in friends, new hangouts, sudden avoidance of “old crowd”.
Changes in activities, hobbies; loss of interest in previously important activities; discontinuation of favorite hobbies or pastimes.
Secretiveness, sudden withdrawal from family and friends.
Unexplained periods of moodiness, irritability, depression, anxiety; frequent temper tantrums and continuing resentful behavior.
Sudden oversensitivity (everything is a “hassle,” or a reason to “get off my back”).
Change or drop in performance at work or school, grades dropping off; change in habits at home.
Noticeable drop in attention span, nodding off in class or work.
General lack of motivation to do anything; boredom; “I don’t care” attitude.