Drugs of Abuse

How Do You Know....If someone is addicted to drugs?

• Attempts to quit using the drug or to "cut down" have failed
  
• The drug is taken in a larger amount than what was intended for a longer period of time than was intended
  
• A large amount of time is spent in activities necessary to get the drugs (criminal activities, finding a dealer, "doctor shopping," getting prescriptions filled)
  
• Activities that were important (work-related, social, recreational) are cut back or given up for lack of time or interest due to drug use
  
• Drug use is continued despite the fact that it is causing problems socially (with friends, family), psychologically or physically
  
• Drug-tolerance is created and more drugs are needed to get the desired effects
  
• Withdrawal symptoms are experienced as a result of not having the drug
  
• Other drugs are used to avoid withdrawal or to relieve withdrawal
  
• Inability to fulfill responsibilities due to being intoxicated (misses work, neglects children, neglects personal hygiene, etc.)
  
• Frequently intoxicated when doing so is physically hazardous (driving, babysitting, etc.)

-National Institute on Drug Abuse