Parents often worry they won’t know if their children are using drugs because they don’t know the signs of drug use. Parents aren’t the only people who’re concerned; teachers, employers, other family members, and many other people may be wondering if someone they know is “hooked” on drugs. Here are some general and specific signs and symptoms of drug abuse.

Physical signs:
1. Loss of or increase in appetite, changes in eating habits, unexplained loss or gain of weight.
2. Poor physical coordination similar to someone being drunk.
3. Inability to sleep or other changes in sleep patterns.
4. Red, watery eyes; pupils larger or smaller than usual; blank stare.
5. Cold, sweaty palms and/or shaking hands.
6. Puffy face, blushing or paleness.
7. The odor of the abused substance on breath, body or clothes.
8. Extreme hyperactivity and/or excessive talkativeness.
9. Runny nose and/or hacking cough.
10. Needle marks.
11. Nausea, vomiting or excessive sweating.
12. Tremors or shakes.
13. Irregular heartbeat.

Behavioral signs:
1. Change in overall attitude or personality with no known cause.
2. New people become friends and old friends are avoided. The new friends are known drug users.
3. Change in activities or hobbies.
4. Drop in grades at school or performance at work.
5. Change in habits at home including a loss of interest in family and family activities.
6. Difficulty in paying attention and/or forgetfulness.
7. General lack of motivation, energy, and/or self-esteem.
8. Sudden and unexplained emotional changes including sever mood swings.
9. Irritability or nervousness.
10. Silliness or giddiness.
11. Paranoia
12. Excessive need for privacy. Become secretive or shows suspicious behavior.
13. Chronic lying.
14. Unexplained need for money and/or stealing money.
15. Change in personal grooming habits.
16. Possession of drug paraphernalia.