Drug

Addiction
Drug addiction is a state
of periodic or chronic
intoxication produced by the
repeated consumption of a
drug.
How addiction develops
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.
Why do some
drug users
become
addicted, while
others don’t?
 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
Risk factors that increase your
vulnerability include:
Family history of addiction
Abuse, neglect, or other traumatic
experiences in childhood
Mental disorders such as
depression and anxiety
Early use of drugs
 Common signs and
symptoms of drug
addiction
Ø
-You’ve built up a drug tolerance.
Ø-You need to use more of the drug to
experience the same effects you used
to with smaller amounts.
Ø-You take drugs to avoid or relieve
withdrawal symptoms
 Ø
-You continue to use drugs,
despite knowing it’s hurtingyou.

Ø
-Your life revolves around drug
use.
Physical signs of
drug abuse
Ø-Changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
Sudden weight loss or weight gain.
Ø-Bloodshot eyes or pupils that are larger or

smaller than usual.

Ø-Deterioration of physical appearance and

personal grooming habits.

Ø-Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing.

Physical warning
Ø-Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired

coordination.

signs of drug abuse

Effects:
 Behavioral signs of drug
abuse
Ø
-Drop in attendance and performance at work or school.
Ø
-Unexplained need for money or financial problems. May borrow or steal to get it.
-Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors.
-Sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies.
-Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities).
Psychological warning
signs of drug abuse
Ø
-Unexplained change in personality or attitude.
Ø
-Sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts.
-Lack of motivation; appears lethargic or “spaced out.”
-Periods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation, or giddiness.
-Appears fearful, anxious, or paranoid, with no reason.
Rehabilitation
Thank you.
Prepared by:
Cindy S. Sildo