Warning Signs

Substance abuse and use disorders are treatable, yet serious health problems that can be influenced by a variety of circumstances, including: physical, verbal or sexual abuse; loss of employment, trauma, divorce, peer pressure, exposure to substance abuse saturated environments, genetic predisposition, untreated or misdiagnosed mental illness, such as anxiety and depression; and simply stress in general.

Substance abuse and addiction can, and does, affect everyone. Poor health, suicide, and death; criminal behavior, poor or discontinued academic performance, loss of employment, unplanned pregnancies and child neglect, are just a few of the negative consequences of substance abuse that personally, and financially devastates the user as well as members of their families and community.

Below is a list of some, but not all, signs that could indicate substance abuse. Professional assessments are recommended to identify issues or conditions that may be a contributing factor to ensure a successful treatment and recovery plan can be developed. To find local support resources, please visit our “Find Help” tab at the top of our homepage.

Signs of Substance Abuse Include:
Changes in behavior
Decrease in school or work attendance, poor performance
Increased secrecy
Lack of motivation & discipline
Change in personal appearance
Mood swings, attitude change
Increased borrowing of money or theft
New friends; association with drug-using peers
Withdrawal from family, friends, and responsibilities