Debbie People suffer from substance use disorders for different reasons. Often, the drug or alcohol use itself is enough to cause severe problems if it gets out of hand.
Other times, an underlying mental health disorder, as well as stressful life events, can be the factors that lead to substance abuse.
The symptoms of substance use disorder differ depending on the substances abused. We will look at the common signs of a substance abuse problem, as well as the signs of each substance abuse disorder.
Read on!
Strong Cravings for Alcohol or Drug
Strong cravings for alcohol or drugs are a symptom of substance use disorder. These intense nuclear forces of craving can feel almost unmanageable. Cravings are an indicator that the individual’s body has developed a physical addiction to the substance.
Changes in brain chemistry make it feel as if a person needs the substance to function regularly. Cravings can come as an urge to take a drug or drink alcohol, as a memory of past experiences, or as a fear of missing out if the person does not take the substance.
Its effects can be so powerful that a person is tempted to continue using the substance despite of negative consequences. This can make it very difficult to overcome an addiction, as the cravings are sometimes too hard to resist. The best way to prevent this symptom is to never start using alcohol or drugs in the first place or consider medication assisted treatment here.
Forgetting About Hygiene
Substance use disorder is a serious condition that can have a severe impact on multiple aspects of life, including hygiene. An individual with a substance use disorder may experience a symptom of forgetting about hygiene. This is due to their impaired well-being:
- physically
- emotionally
- mentally
People with substance use disorder may experience difficulty remembering hygiene practices. This includes brushing the teeth or showering regularly. They may also neglect personal hygiene tasks that would otherwise be considered routine, such as combing their hair or changing clothing regularly. One must look into substance use disorder tips to avoid this disorder.
Neglecting Important Obligations
While the person may temporarily feel good due to the effects of the substance, they may find themselves putting it above their responsibilities. This can lead to:
- missed appointments
- missed deadlines
- poor work performance
- straining of relationships
- signs of life imbalance
A person that is using substances excessively may prioritize seeking and using substances over their obligations to:
- friends
- family
- even themselves
Left unchecked, this symptom can lead to serious consequences including their implications, affecting these aspects:
- financial
- legal
- social
To address this symptom of substance use disorder neglecting important obligations, individuals need to establish a strong support system and, in some cases, seek professional help.
It Helps to Know How to Identify Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder
Substance use disorder is a serious condition that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. Identifying symptoms of substance use disorder is essential for finding the best treatment for each individual.
It is important to remember that no two individuals are the same and recognizing the signs is key to helping those in need. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, reach out for help today.
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