According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, in 2011-2012, approximately 500,000 Texans aged 12 or older were dependent on or had abused illicit drugs within the past year. Have you ever worried that a family member, friend or co-worker is one of them?

Patricia Sylve LPC-S, Clinical Director at the Greenhouse, a leading provider of substance abuse treatment services for individuals with drug and/or alcohol addiction in North Texas, shares warning signs that someone you know is using drugs. If left untreated, use and abuse of drugs can lead to addiction and cause severe mental and physical problems.

 Behavioral signs

• Sudden changes in relationships and friends
• Frequent absences from work or school, decreased motivation while at work or school
• Financial problems and/or unusual or unexplained requests for money
• Silent or withdrawn, acting in a secretive manner

 Psychological signs

• Mood swings, angry outbursts, increased irritability
• Fearful, withdrawn, anxious or paranoid for no apparent reason
• Noticeable changes in personality or attitude
• Unusual hyperactivity or prolonged agitation

 Physical signs

• Bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils
• Shakes or tremors, incoherent or slurred speech
• Sudden weight loss or gain, lack of sleep
• Unexplained injuries or accidents 

If any of these warning signs apply, immediately speak up and offer your support. Drug addiction is a chronic disease and just like cancer or diabetes, the earlier addiction is treated, the better. If you are uneasy about broaching the subject, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence has tips on their website, www.ncaad.org, on the best way to approach your family member or friend.