If you're concerned that you or a loved one might have a substance use problem, noticing the signs early is very important. Knowing there's a problem can help you avoid dependency and other long-term health consequences.
Signs of substance use and addiction are different for each person. It depends on the individual, the substance they're using, and if there's a family history of substance use. The #1 sign is an overwhelming desire, craving, or feeling that they must use the substance despite its negative effects.
Common Signs Include
Increasing use of a substance
Can't control their use:
- Continuing to use a substance even though it's causing physical, mental, behavior, or social problems.
- Using more of the substance and for longer than planned.
- Can't stop using the substance.
Health problems
- Unusual sleep patterns.
- Extreme exhaustion.
- Unexpected weight loss or gain.
- Eating more or less than usual.
Changes in appearance
Neglecting hygiene or not caring how they look:
- Not showering.
- Not brushing their teeth.
- Disinterest in clothes.
- Wearing dirty clothes.
Relationship issues
- Acting out against people closest to them.
- Problems getting along with others.
- Blaming others for any strain in personal relationships.
Neglecting people and activities
- Spending less time with people who are important to them.
- Losing interest in activities, hobbies, or passions.
- Withdrawing completely.
Neglecting routine daily tasks
- Not caring for loved ones or pets.
- Not cooking.
- Not cleaning.
Problems at work or school
- Unexcused absences.
- Missing appointments.
- Decreasing performance or productivity.
- Falling grades or failing.
Engaging in risky behavior
- Taking serious risks to get their drug.
- Driving under the influence of a substance.
- Getting in trouble with authority figures.
- Breaking the law.
Secrecy
- Hiding how much substance they're using and how often.
- Lying about where they are and who they're with.
- Unexplained injuries or accidents.
Money issues
- Borrowing or stealing money or items to sell or buy drugs.
Tolerance
- Needing more of a substance because their body has adapted to it, and then needing a greater amount to have the same effects.
Withdrawal
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they don't use the substance, such as:
- Anxiety or jumpiness.
- Shakiness or trembling.
- Sweating.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Insomnia or exhaustion.
- Depression or irritability.
- Loss of appetite.
- Headaches.
Learn more about our programs at UPMC Western Behavioral Health Addiction Medicine Services and how we can help.
Need Care for Yourself or Someone You Love? Contact Us.
If you are having a medical emergency, call 911.
If you are having a mental health emergency, call or text 988.
Are you seeking help for a substance use disorder or addiction?
- Greater Pittsburgh — To schedule an appointment or for information on our walk-in visits in Pittsburgh, call 412-246-5910.
- Pennsylvania & New York — Contact the UPMC Western Behavioral Health Addiction Medicine Services location near you in southwestern, northwestern, and west central Pennsylvania, or western New York.
Find a Location Near You
If you or someone you know has thoughts of suicide or self-harm:
Text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or call 800-273-8255.
