Drug and Alcohol Addiction in Montgomery, AL (877) 804-1531

Few people start out with drug use and abuse with the intention of becoming addicted. Experimentation can lead to more frequent use, which can in turn lead to addiction. Recognizing the signs of addiction is important in knowing when help is needed. Denying substance abuse and failing to recognize the signs of addiction can negatively impact every aspect of an addict's life and the lives of those they love.

Call Alcohol Treatment Centers Montgomery at (877) 804-1531 for treatment options.

Behavioral Signs of Drug and Alcohol Addiction in Montgomery

Behavioral symptoms of drug and alcohol addiction in Montgomery include building up a tolerance to alcohol and having to consistently drink more to achieve the desired effects. A person may feel as if their life is no longer under their own control and begin neglecting relationships and jobs.

Physical signs of addiction include anxiety, trembling, sweating, nausea, depression, fatigue, appetite loss or headaches. A person may often wake up in the morning with "the shakes" and have to drink to stop the symptoms. For more severe alcohol addictions, hallucinations, confusion, seizures, fever and agitation can result.

While drugs can have differing effects on a person depending upon the drug type, behavioral signs of addiction are often similar across the board. Behavioral signs of drug addiction include having intense urges or cravings for the drug or the way it makes the person feel.

A person may spend large amounts of money on the drug and even start stockpiling the drug for fear of running out. A person may withdraw from typical activities in favor of focusing on getting their fix. If he or she attempts to stop using the substance on their own they usually will not be successful.

Physical Signs of Drug and Alcohol Addiction in Montgomery

Physical signs of addiction are more likely to vary based on the drug the person is abusing. For example, marijuana or cannabis-containing substances can cause a person's blood pressure and heart rate to increase. Their eyes may become red and their mouth dry. Their appetite can increase and they may have paranoid thoughts and reactions. In contrast, barbiturates and benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants.

This means they may behave as if the world is moving more slowly. They may exhibit signs of cognitive impairment, dizziness, depression, and lower blood pressure. They may have slurred speech and appear uncoordinated. Drugs such as methamphetamines and cocaine stimulate the body and make a person appear "sped up." Their pupils may be dilated; they may appear overly energetic and irritable. Insomnia, paranoia, rapid speech and excess confidence are other signs.

Health Side Effects of Using Drugs

Drugs are harmful because they cause the body to become mentally and physically dependent upon the substance. When the substance is not available, the body is imbalanced and withdrawal symptoms result. In the case of substances such as alcohol, withdrawal can have deadly effects. In addition to long-term health issues, drug abuse increases a person's chance for risky behaviors and traumatic injuries.

How Can Drugs Start to Interfere With a Person's Life?

Drugs cause behavioral, physical and psychological side effects. Drugs can interfere with a person's life because they begin to lose motivation for daily activities in favor of drug-seeking behaviors. A person may feel withdrawn from others and their addiction can keep them from holding a job or maintaining positive relationships with others. Drugs can have devastating effects on people's lives, and in severe circumstances, can cost them their lives.

Signs of Addiction to Painkillers

While painkillers may be legal, they are prone to abuse and overuse. Examples of narcotic painkillers include codeine, oxycodone and methadone. The effects of addiction for these drugs can be increasingly difficult because a person may require temporary drug substitutions to combat withdrawals. Examples of symptoms of addiction to painkillers include drowsiness, slurred speech, constricted pupils, depression, confusion, clammy skin, coordination problems, sedation and memory loss.

If you suspect yourself or a loved one to have a substance abuse problem, and need help finding a rehab facility, contact Alcohol Treatment Centers Montgomery today at (877) 804-1531.