Substance Abuse: Signs of Drug Use

Below are some POSSIBLE indicators of drug use. They can also be indicators of something entirely different. For example, anxiety and irritability can just indicate someone may be stressed or tired. It is important that we see these as POSSIBLE indicators only and not as definitive evidence of drug use.

  • Glassy, red or watery eyes
  • Contracted or dilated pupils
  • No response of pupils to light
  • Impaired vision
  • Loud talking
  • Inappropriate laughter
  • Loss of interest
  • Weight loss or gain
  • Drunk-like behavior
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Clumsiness/stumbling
  • Sleepiness
  • Slurred speech
  • Hyperactivity
  • Euphoria
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety
  • Inability to focus
  • Excessive talking followed by depression
  • Excessive sleeping at odd times
  • Dry mouth and nose
  • Impaired memory and thoughts
  • Absent mindedness
  • Secretions from the nose or rashes around the nose and mouth
  • Poor muscle control
  • Bizarre and irrational behavior
  • Paranoia
  • Aggression
  • Hallucinations
  • Mood swings
  • Confusion
  • Needle marks
  • Sweating
  • Twitching
  • Smells of alcohol
  • Smells of marijuana
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