Recognizing Drug Abuse & Addiction

(This article published in the July/August 2010 issue of The American Postal Worker magazine.)

Joyce B. Robinson, Research & Education Department Director

Drug abuse is a prevalent problem in our society. It involves the repeated and excessive use of chemical substances to achieve a certain effect. These substances may be “illicit” drugs, such as heroin or cocaine, or they can be prescription drugs, which are just as dangerous when used incorrectly.

Prescription drugs, such as vicodin and oxycontin, are often prescribed for chronic pain; valium and xanax, are prescribed to treat anxiety. The problem arises when these drugs are used for long periods of time or by someone other than the person they were prescribed for.

Signs and Symptoms

Drug abuse affects the entire body. Stimulants, such as cocaine and methamphetamine, “amp up” the body, increasing blood pressure and metabolism, and impairing the ability to sleep. Drugs classified as opiates and barbiturates, such as heroin or sleeping pills, slow down the body, reducing blood pressure, breathing, and alertness — sometimes to dangerous levels.

Signs of abuse and addiction include: Increased energy, restlessness, and inability to sleep; abnormally slow speech or reaction time, confusion, and disorientation; sudden weight loss or gain; excessive sleep; possession of drug paraphernalia, such as pipes or syringes; chronic sinusitis or nosebleeds; coughing up excessive mucus or blood; failure to bathe or wear clean clothes; wearing long-sleeved clothing in hot weather (to hide needle marks); increased irritability, agitation and anger; unusual calmness, unresponsiveness, or looking “spaced out;” apathy and depression; and paranoia, delusions, and hallucinations.

Teenagers and Drug Abuse

It is often hard for parents to tell if their teenager has a drug problem. After all, teenagers are notorious for oversleeping, pushing boundaries, or wanting their own privacy and space.

If you suspect your teen has a drug problem, look for these warning signs: A sudden decrease in school activity; slipping grades; absences from school without permission; neglect of personal hygiene and appearance; changes in the way he or she relates to family members; increased isolation; new groups of friends, and sleeping excessively or inability to sleep. Also, have you noticed that money, valuables, or prescription drugs seem to be disappearing?

Myths About Drug Abuse

Common myths about drug abuse are:

• Overcoming addiction is a simply a matter of willpower. Prolonged exposure to drug use results in powerful cravings, making it extremely difficult to quit. 
• There is nothing you can do about it. Experts agree that the brain changes associated with addiction can be treated and reversed through therapy, medication, exercise, and other treatments. 
• Addicts have to hit rock bottom before they can get better. Recovery can begin at any point in the addiction process. 
• Forcing someone into treatment is useless; they have to want help.Treatment doesn’t have to be voluntary to be successful. People pressured into treatment are just as likely to benefit as those who enter treatment on their own. 
• Treatment didn’t work before, so there is no point trying again. Relapses are common; repeated treatment is frequently necessary.

Finding Support

Don’t expect your loved one to be able to quit without support. Withdrawal can be unpleasant, painful, and even deadly. It should take place under medical supervision.

If you are a drug user, remember: You are not alone. Solicit support from trusted friends, a therapist, or your place of worship.

Other resources include:

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP): (800) 327-4968

Nar-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc.: (800) 477-6291

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): (800) 662-4357; TDD: (800) 228-0427