Drug Addiction Symptoms: 7 Ways to Spot Them

There are definite symptoms associated with drug addiction. An addict isn't necessarily using drugs in public or in the presence of others—and they don't all look like they're about to rob a store at gunpoint to get quick drug money.

Learning how to spot these symptoms of drug addiction can raise your awareness of those not-so-obvious drug addicts in your environment. Easily observable in any person from time to time, in the drug addict these symptoms are more frequent and may be sudden and uncharacteristic, and occur over a prolonged period of time:

1. CRAVINGS: Watch their eyes. They may flick nervously as if they're looking for something, or as if they lost something. They are, and they did: they have a powerful,
often uncontrollable desire—for drugs.

2. DEPRESSION: Find out how long they sleep or spend apart from others. An addict may sleep longer, spend more time alone, withdraw from normal social activities, and
frequently sit or lay down and stare,  or  simply "nap".

3. IRRITABILITY: Note their impatience. They may exhibit a low degree of Tolerance for others' behavior, words, actions, etc. Little things may set them off, and they may have a sharp temper or a quick retreat when faced with even the smallest of barriers or perceived stress inducers. They can appear preoccupied, restless and easily angered.

4. FATIGUE: See if they tire easily. Where others may have the expected level of energy called for in any given situation, an addict may "hit a wall" and bow out early from a
simple physical task or a project without much explanation. Even if they appear in somewhat good shape physically, their ability to endure can be reduced.

5. UNCLEAR THINKING: Ask them an open-ended (not a yes-or-no) question and listen to their response. Also watch for decreased memory and a shortened attention span.
Even if they seem convincing, listen when they attempt to explain something with more than a few parts to it: their logic may quickly break down or stand out as choppy, nonsequitur or nonsensical, but they may not even be fully aware of this as something wrong.

6. LOW ENERGY: Observe their general level of enthusiasm toward life: In an addict, it's not good—or if it is, it's not very convincing. Inside that person's world, life is a drag
and any barrier or challenge is enough to shut them down. They're easily discouraged and may appear bored or apathetic.

7. DECREASED SENSE OF WELL BEING: Listen to their opinion of something or someone. Are you inspired? Do you feel more robust and full of zest just by listening to them? An addict has a lowered drive for and decreased ability to achieve happiness, health and prosperity in life.

If you see some or any of these symptoms, be suspicious. You could call 888 966-3784 (888 NO-DRUGS)and talk to an expert. There is no charge for the call.

Narconon, The Road Out