Causes & Signs of Drug Abuse
The first step in treating drug addiction in Iowa is knowing the common causes of addiction. Some of these causes are:
- Socioeconomic status
- Social isolation
- Self medication for a physical or mental ailment
- Environmental factors such as problems in the home or family
- Exposure to drugs or alcohol through peers
- Stress
- Major life changes
Although each of these things can cause an addiction, they do not always indicate one. If you are wondering whether you or a loved one is abusing drugs, you need to look at the symptoms of drug addiction. Some of these symptoms are:
- Obsession with drugs or alcohol
- Continuing to use alcohol despite the negative consequences you experience
- Risk taking behavior while on the drugs or alcohol
- Risk taking behavior such as stealing or prostitution to obtain the drugs or alcohol
- Secretive behavior
- Missing family and other social events in favor of using drugs or alcohol
- Missing or being consistently late to work or school because of the drugs or alcohol
- Stealing to obtain money to buy drugs
- Suddenly having prescription or valuables go missing when the suspected addict is around
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
- Changes in appearance, hygiene, and health
Although these are not the only symptoms, they are usually the most common ones. Each person experiences addiction differently, so the symptoms can vary drastically. Each of these signs should be carefully considered when determining if you or your loved one has a drug problem.