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Are you struggling with a drug problem that¶s spiraled out of control? If so, you may feel isolated,
helpless, or ashamed. Or perhaps you¶re worried about a friend or family member¶s drug use. In
either case, you¶re not alone. Addiction is a problem that many people face.
The good news is that you or your loved one can get better. There is hope²no matter how bad the
substance abuse problem and no matter how powerless you feel. Learning about the nature of
addiction²how it develops, what it looks like, and why it has such a powerful hold²will give you a
better understanding of the problem and how to deal with it.
IN THIS ARTICLE:

º Understanding addiction
º Effects of drug abuse and addiction
º Signs and symptoms
º Warning signs in others
º Drug addiction and denial
º Getting help for drug abuse and addiction
º When a loved one has a drug problem
º Related links

á INT AUTHO

TEXT
IZE

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i
 common addic ions:
º Alcoholism & Alcohol Abuse
º
moking
º uambling Addiction
º Internet Addiction
Addiction is a complex disorder characterized by compulsive drug use. áeople who are addicted
feel an overwhelming, uncontrollable need for drugs or alcohol, even in the face of negative
consequences. This self-destructive behavior can be hard to understand. Why continue doing
something that¶s hurting you? Why is it so hard to stop?

The answer lies in the brain. epeated drug use alters the brain²causing long-lasting changes to
the way it looks and functions. These brain changes interfere with your ability to think clearly,
exercise good judgment, control your behavior, and feel normal without drugs. These changes are
also responsible, in large part, for the drug cravings and compulsion to use that make addiction so
powerful.
How addic ion dops
The path to drug addiction starts with experimentation. You or your loved one may have tried
drugs out of curiosity, because friends were doing it, or in an effort to erase another problem. At
first, the substance seems to solve the problem or make life better, so you use the drug more and
more.

But as the addiction progresses, getting and using the drug becomes more and more important
and your ability to stop using is compromised. What begins as a voluntary choice turns into a
physical and psychological need. The good news is that drug addiction is treatable. With treatment
and support, you can counteract the disruptive effects of addiction and regain control of your life.

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@ TH 1: icoming addic ion is a simp a ma  of wipow ou can s op using
dugs if ou a wan o árolonged exposure to drugs alters the brain in ways that result in
powerful cravings and a compulsion to use. These brain changes make it extremely difficult to quit
by sheer force of will.
@ TH 2: Addic ion is a disas
 s no
ing ou can do abou i  Most experts agree
that addiction is a brain disease, but that doesn¶t mean you¶re a helpless victim. The brain changes
associated with addiction can be treated and reversed through therapy, medication, exercise, and
other treatments.

@ TH 3: Addic s
a o
i ock bo om bfo
 can g b  ecovery can begin at
any point in the addiction process²and the earlier, the better. The longer drug abuse continues,
the stronger the addiction becomes and the harder it is to treat. Don¶t wait to intervene until the
addict has lost it all.
@ TH 4: ou can foc somon  in o a mn 

a o wan
p. Treatment
doesn¶t have to be voluntary to be successful. áeople who are pressured into treatment by their
family, employer, or the legal system are just as likely to benefit as those who choose to enter
treatment on their own. As they sober up and their thinking clears, many formerly resistant
addicts decide they want to change.

@ TH 5: Ta mn didn wok bfo

so
 s no poin ing again som cass a

opss ecovery from drug addiction is a long process that often involves setbacks. elapse
doesn¶t mean that treatment has failed or that you¶re a lost cause. ather, it¶s a signal to get back
on track, either by going back to treatment or adjusting the treatment approach.

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While each drug of abuse produces different physical effects, all abused substances share one
thing in common. They hijack the brain¶s normal ³reward´ pathways and alter the areas of the
brain responsible for self-control, judgment, emotional regulation, motivation, memory, and
learning.

Whether you¶re addicted to nicotine, alcohol, heroin, Xanax, speed, or Vicodin, the effect on the
brain is the same: an uncontrollable craving to use that is more important than anything else,
including family, friends, career, and even your own health and happiness.

˜sing dugs as an scap: A s
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 Many people use drugs in order to escape physical and
emotional discomfort. Maybe you started drinking to numb feelings of depression, smoking pot to
deal with stress at home or school, relying on cocaine to boost your energy and confidence, using
sleeping pills to cope with panic attacks, or taking prescription painkillers to relieve chronic back
pain.

But while drugs might make you feel better in the short-term, attempts to self-medicate ultimately
backfire. Instead of treating the underlying problem, drug use simply masks the symptoms. Take
the drug away and the problem is still there, whether it be low self-esteem, anxiety, loneliness, or
an unhappy family life. Furthermore, prolonged drug use eventually brings its own host of
problems, including major disruptions to normal, daily functioning. Unfortunately, the
psychological, physical, and social consequences of drug abuse and addiction become worse than
the original problem you were trying to cope with or avoid.

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As with many other conditions and diseases, vulnerability to addiction differs from person to
person. Your genes, age when you started taking drugs, and family and social environment all play
a role in addiction. isk factors that increase your vulnerability include:
º Family history of addiction
º Abuse, neglect, or other traumatic experiences in childhood
º Mental disorders such as depression and anxiety
º Early use of drugs

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Although different drugs have different physical effects, the symptoms of addiction are the same
no matter the substance. The more drugs begin to affect and control your life, the more likely it is
that you¶ve crossed the line from drug use to abuse and drug addiction. Unfortunately, when
you¶re in the middle of it, you may be in denial about the magnitude of the problem or the
negative impact it's had on your life.
ee if you recognize yourself in the following signs and
symptoms of substance abuse and addiction. If so, consider talking to someone about your drug
use. You¶re on a dangerous road, and the sooner you get help, the better.

Common signs and smp oms of dug abus

º ou  ngc ing ou sponsibii is at school, work, or home (e.g. flunking classes,
skipping work, neglecting your children)
º
º ou  using dugs und dangous condi ions o aking isks w
i
ig
, such as
driving while on drugs, using dirty needles, or having unprotected sex.
º ou dug us is g ing ou in o ga oub
such as arrests for disorderly conduct,
driving under the influence, or stealing to support a drug habit.
º ou dug us is causing pobms in ou a ions
ips
such as fights with your
partner or family members, an unhappy boss, or the loss of old friends.

Common signs and smp oms of dug addic ion

 º ou  bui up a dug oanc You need to use more of the drug to experience the
same effects you used to with smaller amounts.
º ou ak dugs o aoid o i wi
dawa smp oms If you go too long without
drugs, you experience symptoms such as nausea, restlessness, insomnia, depression,
sweating, shaking, and anxiety.
º ou  os con o o ou dug us You often do drugs or use more than you
planned, even though you told yourself you wouldn¶t. You may want to stop using, but you
feel powerless.
º ou if os aound dug us You spend a lot of time using and thinking about
drugs, figuring out how to get them, and recovering from the drug¶s effects.
º ou  abandond ac ii is ou usd o njo
such as hobbies, sports, and
socializing, because of your drug use.
º ou con inu o us dugs
dspi  knowing i s
u ing ou It¶s causing major
problems in your life²blackouts, infections, mood swings, depression, paranoia²but you
use anyway.
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Almost all drugs have the potential for addiction and abuse, from caffeine to prescription
medication. However, the majority of non-alcohol related addictions are due to a short list of drugs
including sleeping pills, painkillers, cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, and heroin.
Cick
 fo a PDF fac s
 on
 smp oms and ffc s of common abusd dugs

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Drug abusers often try to conceal their symptoms and downplay their problem. If you¶re worried
that a friend or family member might be abusing drugs, look for the following warning signs:

P
sica waning signs of dug abus

º Bloodshot eyes or pupils that are larger or smaller than usual.
º hanges in appetite or sleep patterns.
udden weight loss or weight gain.
º Deterioration of physical appearance and personal grooming habits.
º Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing.
º Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination.

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aioa signs of dug abus

º Drop in attendance and performance at work or school.
º Unexplained need for money or financial problems. May borrow or steal to get it.
º Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors.
º
udden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies.
º Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities).

Psc
oogica waning signs of dug abus

º Unexplained change in personality or attitude.
º
udden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts.
º áeriods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation, or giddiness.
º Lack of motivation; appears lethargic or ³spaced out.´
º Appears fearful, anxious, or paranoid, with no reason.
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There are many warning signs of drug use and abuse in teenagers. The challenge for parents is to
distinguish between the normal, sometimes volatile, ups and downs of the teen years and the red
flags of substance abuse.
º Being secretive about friends, possessions, and activities.
º New interest in clothing, music, and other items that highlight drug use.
º Demanding more privacy; locking doors; avoiding eye contact; sneaking around.
º
kipping class; declining grades; suddenly getting into trouble at school.
º Missing money, valuables, or prescriptions.
º Acting uncharacteristically isolated, withdrawn, or depressed.
º Using incense, perfume, or air freshener to hide the smell of smoke or drugs.
º Using eyedrops to mask bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils.

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One of the most dangerous effects of drug abuse and

addiction is denial. The urge to use is so strong that the mind finds many ways to rationalize the
addiction. You may drastically underestimate the quantity of drugs you¶re taking, how much it
impacts your life, and the level of control you have over your drug use.

Denial is an unconscious defense mechanism. Minimizing and rationalizing the addiction is less
scary than admitting that your drug use is dangerously out of control. But the cost of denial can be
extremely high²including the loss of important relationships, your job, financial security, and your
physical and mental health.

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º Do you feel like you can¶t stop, even if you wanted to?
º Do you ever feel bad or guilty about your drug use?
º Do you need to use drugs to relax or feel better?
º Do your friends or family members complain or worry about your drug use?
º Do you hide or lie about your drug use?
º Have you ever done anything illegal in order to obtain drugs?
º Do you spend money on drugs that you really can¶t afford?
º Do you ever use more than one recreational drug at a time?

If you answered ³yes´ to one or more of the questions, you may have a drug problem.

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º Visit Narcotics Anonymous to find a meeting in your area.
º all 1 2HELP to reach a free referral helpline from the
ubstance Abuse and
Mental Health
ervices Administration.
If you¶re ready to admit you have a drug problem, congratulations! ecognizing that you have a
problem is the first step on the road to recovery, one that takes tremendous courage and strength.

Facing your addiction without minimizing the problem or making excuses can feel frightening and
overwhelming, but recovery is within reach. If you¶re ready to make a change and willing to seek
help, you can overcome your addiction and build a satisfying, drug-free life for yourself.

Suppo is ssn ia o addic ion co

Don¶t try to go it alone; it¶s all too easy to get discouraged and rationalize ³just one more´ hit or
pill. Whether you choose to go to rehab, rely on self-help programs, get therapy, or take a self-
directed treatment approach, support is essential. ecovering from drug addiction is much easier
when you have people you can lean on for encouragement, comfort, and guidance.

upport can come from:

º family members
º close friends
º therapists or counselors
º other recovering addicts
º healthcare providers
º people from your faith community

Rcoing fom dug addic ion

Addiction is a complex problem that affects every aspect of your life. Overcoming it requires
making major changes to the way you live, deal with problems, and relate to others. It¶s not just a
matter of willpower or simply wanting to quit. uetting off drugs for good is difficult without
treatment and ongoing support. The good news is that there are many tools that can help you on
your journey to sobriety.

ead: Overcoming Drug Addiction: Drug Abuse Treatment, ecovery, and Help

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If you suspect that a friend or family member has a drug problem, here are a few things you can
do:

º Spak up Talk to the person about your concerns, and offer your help and support. The
earlier addiction is treated, the better. Don¶t wait for your loved one to hit bottom! Be
prepared for excuses and denial with specific examples of behavior that has you worried.
º Tak ca of ousf. Don¶t get so caught up in someone else¶s drug problem that you
neglect your own needs. Make sure you have people you can talk to and lean on for
support. And stay safe. Don¶t put yourself in dangerous situations.
º Aoid sfbam. You can support a person with a substance abuse problem and
encourage treatment, but you can¶t force an addict to change. You can¶t control your loved
one¶s decisions. Let the person accept responsibility for his or her actions, an essential step
along the way to recovery for drug addiction.
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º Don't attempt to punish, threaten, bribe, or preach.
º Don't try to be a martyr. Avoid emotional appeals that may only increase feelings of guilt and
the compulsion to use drugs.
º Don't cover up or make excuses for the drug abuser, or shield them from the negative
consequences of their behavior.
º Don't take over their responsibilities, leaving them with no sense of importance or dignity.
º Don't hide or throw out drugs.
º Don't argue with the person when they are high.
º Don't take drugs with the drug abuser.
º Above all, try not to feel guilty or responsible for another's behavior.

Adapted from: National learinghouse for Alcohol & Drug Information

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Discovering your child uses drugs can generate fear, confusion, and anger in parents. It¶s
important to remain calm when confronting your teen, and only do so when everyone is sober.
Explain your concerns and make it clear that your concerncomes from a place of love.It¶s
important that your teen feels you are supportive.

Five steps parents can take:

º La down us and consuncs: Your teen should understand that using drugs
comes with specific consequences. But don¶t make hollow threats or set rules that you
cannot enforce. Make sure your spouse agrees with the rules and is prepared to enforce
them.
º @oni o ou n s ac ii : Know where your teen goes andwho he or she hangs out
with. It¶s also important to routinely check potential hiding places for drugs²in backpacks,
between books on a shelf, in DVD cases or make-up cases, for example.Explain to your
teen that this lack of privacy is a consequence of him or her having been caught using
drugs.
º Encouag o
 in s s and socia ac ii is. Expose your teen to healthy hobbies
and activities, such as team sports,
couts, and afterschool clubs.
º Tak o ou c
id abou unding issus . Drug use can be the result of other
problems. Is your child having trouble fitting in? Has there been a recent major change, like
a move or divorce, which is causing stress?
º u Hp: Teenagers often rebel against their parents but if they hear the same
information from a different authority figure, they may be more inclined to listen.Try a
sports coach, family doctor, therapist, or drug counselor.

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icoming Dug Addic ion

Drug Abuse Treatment, ecovery, and Help

Aco
o Ta mn

R
ab
and D ox
How to
top Drinking and
tart ecovery

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º Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse:
igns,
ymptoms, and Help for Drinking ároblems
º Understanding Depression:
igns,
ymptoms, auses, and Help
º Anxiety Attacks and Disorders:
igns,
ymptoms, and Treatment
º Feeling
uicidal? oping with
uicidal Thoughts and Help to uet You Through

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˜nds anding dug addic ion and i s ffc s

Addiction and the Brain's áleasure áathway: Beyond Willpower ± Describes how the brain becomes
addicted and why relapse is so common. (HBO.com)
Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The
cience of Addiction (áDF) ± Booklet on drug addiction, including
its effects on the brain and new approaches to preventing and treating the disease. (National
Institute on Drug Abuse)

Signs and smp oms of dug abus and dug addic ion

igns and
ymptoms of Drug Use ± overs physical and behavior signs and symptoms of drug
use, as well as drug specific symptoms. (American ouncil for Drug Education)

ubstance Abuse
ymptoms hecklist ± hecklist of substance abuse and drug addiction warning
signs. Also see signs and symptoms in teens. (National ouncil on Alcoholism and Drug
Dependence of the
an Fernando Valley)

igns and
ymptoms of Drug Use ± Includes general signs and symptoms of drug use, as well as
links to more detailed, drug-specific information. (Narconon International)

Common dugs of abus

treetTalk áamphlets ±
eries of straight-talking pamphlets on the ever-changing world of street
drugs. Includes articles on crystal meth, ecstasy, heroin, and club drugs, among others. (Do It
Now Foundation)

árescription Drugs: Abuse and Addiction (áDF) ± uovernment guide to the growing problem of
nonmedical use or abuse of prescription drugs. (National Institute on Drug Abuse)

Dug abus and dug addic ion in ns and oung adu s
TeensHealth: Drugs and Alcohol ±
traightforward talk on drug and alcohol abuse in a question
and answer format, written for teens. (Nemours Foundation)

How to Tell if Your Teen is Using ± uuide for parents on spotting the warning signs and symptoms
of drug use in teens and how to take action to intervene. (The áartnership for a Drug-Free
America)