Without knowledge of the symptoms of addiction, it can be difficult to recognize a drug addiction or alcohol use disorder. Drug abuse symptoms can be physical, behavioral, or psychological, and substance use disorders can change how people feel, look, and behave, making treatment facilities necessary. Sending a loved one to treatment is never easy, but it often proves to be the best course of action in the long run. In many different ways, drug rehab helps with addiction recovery. Read more online about the therapies that rehabilitation facilities can offer to your loved ones.
Defensive behavior is a common symptom of drug and alcohol addiction. It is often the result of a distorted perception of reality and relationships. Because these behaviors are so normal for a person with an addiction, they may not notice that they are unusual. The more an individual engages in such behaviors, the greater the likelihood of suffering from an addiction.
People should know when and why they are likely to react defensively. It may involve keeping a journal to keep track of your reactions. It helps you recognize patterns and plan for any potential setbacks. You can also speak with a mental health professional to learn how to stop being defensive and improve communication skills.
Although this defensive behavior may help an individual feel better in the short term, it is not helpful in the long run. It creates a back-and-forth cycle of defensive behaviors. In addition, it may result in a person avoiding conversation about the current issue.
Loss of Memory
Loss of memory is one of the common signs of drug addiction. Scientists are concerned that illegal drugs can cause memory loss and other long-term complications. Many prescription and illicit drugs contain harmful ingredients that can harm the brain, and many are mixed with other substances. The majority of these substances are not safe for consumption under any circumstances.
Although determining the exact cause of amnesia can be difficult, the symptoms can include forgetting personal information and specific events. Feelings of confusion and disorientation also accompany a loss of memory. Some people may try to hide their amnesia or makeup stories to explain the situation. In these cases, the person is likely suffering from drug addiction.
Drug-induced amnesia and addiction often co-occur, complicating the diagnosis and treatment. Drugs that cause amnesia include alcohol, opioids, and anti-anxiety medications. Memory loss can also occur in people with a history of mental illnesses, such as depression or trauma.
Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite can be one of drug addiction’s most common physical signs. It can directly result from taking stimulants, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, or MDMA. These stimulants affect the body’s calorie-burning metabolism and alter how fat is stored. However, scientists don’t know how dependence on these drugs alters fat storage. Loss of appetite can also be an indicator of binge eating.
If your appetite is affected by substance use, you should monitor it closely. Loss of appetite can lead to dehydration, which is why drinking plenty of water is so important. However, your appetite usually returns once you have stopped using substances. While your body is recovering from substance use, you’ll have to limit the calories you consume to avoid overeating. Try to reduce the amount of sugar and fat in your diet. Also, try to increase your physical activity, reduce smoking, and find counseling or support groups to help you recover from addiction.
Loss of appetite can be one of the most difficult signs of drug addiction. However, it’s important to understand that this withdrawal will take a long time for the person. The symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. It means that it’s important to get help as soon as possible.
Loss of Sleep
The REM stage of sleep may be a good predictor of drug addiction. Loss of REM sleep can be measured in several ways, including sleep latency. Increases in REM sleep are associated with longer abstinence and may be associated with a reduction in the likelihood of relapse. Researchers found that sleep stage switches are more frequent during the abstinence period than after the initial use of a drug. In addition, sleep fragmentation increased after a period of abstinence of three to nine months.
Sleep loss is a symptom of substance use disorder and should be considered a warning sign of relapse. If you experience sleep problems, seek help. However, it is important to talk to a medical professional before making major changes to your lifestyle. While some people may be able to overcome sleep problems independently, others may need help dealing with other underlying issues that make sleeping difficult.
In addition to the physical symptoms of insomnia, people with insomnia or sleep disorders may exhibit various psychological signs of addiction. These include poor sleep habits, excessive fatigue, and a lack of restorative sleep.