Find Help

If you are in crisis, please call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department.

If you’re worried about your own drug or alcohol use, here are some of the warning signs to look for:

• Often taking more of the substance for a longer period than intended
• Ongoing desire or unsuccessful efforts to reduce use
• Great deal of time spent to obtain, use, or recover from substance
• Craving the substance
• Failure to fulfill obligations at work, home, or school as a result of continued use
• Continued use despite ongoing relationship problems caused or worsened by use
• Giving up or reducing social, occupational, or recreational activities because of use
• Repeated use in physically dangerous situations (like drinking or using other drugs while driving)
• Continued use despite ongoing physical or mental health problems caused or worsened by use
• Developing tolerance (feeling less effect from the substance with continued use)
• Withdrawal symptoms if substance is reduced or discontinued

Signs in Friends or Family Members

There are many signs, both physical and behavioral, that may indicate drug use in a friend or family member. Each drug has its own unique manifestations, but there are some general indications that a person is using drugs:

• Sudden change in behavior
• Mood swings; irritable and grumpy and then suddenly happy and bright
• Withdrawal from family members
• Careless about personal grooming
• Loss of interest in hobbies, sports and other favorite activities
• Changed sleeping pattern; up at night and sleeping during the day
• Red or glassy eyes

Learn more about recovery treatment and find additional resources at our Prevention Hub.