Drug addiction: getting help

The signs and symptoms vary from person to person and depend on the drug being used. However, there are several common traits that most addictions share and these include:

Psychological:

• Mood swings and increased temper

• Tiredness

• Paranoia

• Inability to focus or concentrate

• Poor judgement

• Memory problems

• Diminished self-esteem and self-worth

• Feelings of hopelessness

• Exacerbation of any existing mental health conditions such as depression

Behavioural and social:

• Secretive or dishonest behaviour

• Poor performance and/or attendance at work or school

• Withdrawing from responsibility and socialising

• Losing interest in activities, hobbies or events that were once important to you

• Continuing to use the substance, or engage in certain behaviours, despite the negative consequences that these cause

• Trying but failing to reduce or stop misusing a substance, or engaging in certain behaviours

Physical:

• Lack of concern over physical appearance/personal hygiene

• Disrupted sleep patterns, including insomnia