Stimulant addiction has become more popular among the general population over the years, especially when it comes to improving athletic or academic performance. Even individuals that do not misuse stimulants are at risk of becoming addicted, so it is crucial for friends and family to be informed of the potential signs of stimulant addiction. By learning the signs, a person struggling can get the help they need before things spiral out of control.
Early Warning Signs
To tell if someone is using stimulants, you should be on the lookout for early warning signs immediately. These symptoms occur due to repeated stimulant use and may differ between persons and the type of stimulant used. Common stimulants used include ADHD medication and cocaine, but there are others to look out for as well. Someone abusing such substances may display any of the following symptoms:
- Hyperactivity
- Restlessness
- Hyper-focus
- Jitteriness
- Anxiety
- Increased sense of confidence
- Deceptive behavior
- Over sweating
- Weight loss
- Dilated pupils
- Aggressive behaviors
- Impulsivity
Long-Term Consequences
The more a person uses stimulants over an extended period, the more obvious signs of their use will be. Long-term use results in numerous negative consequences that destroy both the person using the substance as well as those around them. Early intervention is imperative to avoid long-term consequences.
The most common consequence of long-term stimulant use is addiction. Individuals may neglect personal and professional responsibilities, fall into financial ruin, get into legal trouble, and more. Health impacts also occur, such as increased blood pressure, risk of stroke, cardiac arrhythmia, cardiac arrest, and more.
Overdose is also possible, especially in individuals using illicit stimulants. Therefore, if a person’s condition quickly worsens and you suspect stimulant abuse, it is imperative to get the help needed to save their life. You can find several resources online to find a trusted treatment facility for your loved one.
Stimulant addiction comes in many forms, but the consequences are almost always the same. Therefore, knowing the signs of stimulant addiction is crucial to protect yourself and your loved ones. The Detox Center of Colorado encourages loved ones of individuals with addiction to take active strides in promoting treatment. We provide resources to educate families and a comprehensive treatment program to set up patients for success in recovery. By treating stimulant addiction and its underlying issues with an expert clinical team, our patients can find long-term healing in their darkest moments. Call (303) 952-5035 today.
