What Are Some Signs Of Opioid Addiction?

Many people who encounter the opioid epidemic are often shocked to learn that they may have a family member or friend battling addiction. The signs of addiction can be tough to recognize, but knowing what they are could lead you down the road of discovering your loved one’s struggle sooner rather than later. This article will discuss some signs of opioid addiction.

Failing To Meet Expectations

Opioid addiction is sadly associated with lower performance levels in school, at work, and even in recreational activities. This is all because opioids are highly addictive substances that can dominate your life. If you notice these changes in your loved one, it may be time to have a conversation with them about what’s going on.

Developing New Interests

A sudden interest in hobbies, music, or fashion is also a common sign of opioid addiction. While this change may be positive for you, it might not seem that way to the person battling addiction. They may become excessively dedicated to their new interests because they are looking for a new source of pleasure after opioids have taken over their life.

Changes In Personality

These personality changes are one of the most difficult things to watch in a loved one battling opioid addiction. They may become irritable, agitated, or moody. These changes are often attributed to withdrawal for opiate users, but there are varying levels of severity.

If you notice these changes in your loved one’s personality, it may be time to get help for them. It might also be an indication that they are keeping their opioid use hidden from you. This can be a sign that they are trying to hide their addiction from you.

Withdrawal

This is one of the most common signs of opioid addiction, but it may not always be present. If you are more aware of your loved one’s habits, this may be an easier sign to notice. If your loved one struggles with addiction, you may notice signs of withdrawal when they cannot get opioids. The most common sign of opioid withdrawal is nausea and vomiting.

Mood And Behavior Changes

If your loved one is using opioids, you may not be able to tell based on their mood and behavior changes. People who struggle with addiction typically do so to avoid the painful symptoms that arise from withdrawal. In some cases, this leads to intense mood swings and personality changes. If you notice that your loved one is going through this negative behavior change, it’s time to confront them about their use.

Withdraws From Family And Friends

An addict who is trying to hide their addiction from you may withdraw from family and friends as a way of being alone with their substance. This could be a sign that they are abusing opioids because they have no intention of stopping. It may also be a sign that they are trying to hide their addiction from you.

If your loved one is withdrawing from family and friends, it could be a sign that they are addicted to opioids. This could be complicated for you to handle when you are trying to help your loved one. They could also be afraid of what you will think when you find out.

Pain

People who struggle with addiction often find that they are in more pain than normal. This can be a sign of pain from withdrawal, but it could also be the work of their addiction. A person who has an addiction to opioids might turn to other substances to dull the pain they feel.

Body Changes

Many people who are addicted to opioids will notice changes in their bodies. This can range from weight loss to muscle loss to much more severe issues that appear when you are in the middle of an addiction. This could be a sign of pain and withdrawal, or it could be the work of their addiction.

Changes In Sleep And Diet

If you notice any changes in your loved one’s sleep and diet, it may be a sign that they are abusing opioids. This is especially true if their lifestyle changes from one day to the next. Their sleeping patterns and eating habits might also change from what you are used to seeing.

Evidence Of Intravenous Drug Use

People that struggle with opioid addiction may find it difficult to pinpoint the signs of their addiction. If your loved one is using opioids intravenously, they may begin to notice signs of infection and other ailments. The most common sign of intravenous drug use is needle marks and infections around the veins.

Conclusion

No matter how long your loved one has been using opioids, there are many warning signs that you should be aware of. These signs are not definitive, but they are helpful indicators.

If you or your loved ones struggle with opioid addiction, contact us today for help. Our experienced staff can help you recover so that you live a sober life once again. Call us at 772-266-5320

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