What is Drug Addiction?
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), addiction is defined as a “chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences.” In other words, drug addiction is a disease that can cause functional changes to the brain circuits that are related to reward, stress, and self-control.
If you or a loved one struggles with drug addiction, consider seeking help from a drug addiction treatment for union members.
Table of Contents
- What is Drug Addiction?
- Signs of Drug Abuse
- Physical Signs of Drug Abuse
- Psychological Signs of Drug Abuse
- Social Signs of Drug Abuse
- Long-Term Effects of Drug Addiction
- Drug Addiction in the Workplace Statistics
- Drug Withdrawal Explained
- What Human Resources Departments Need to Know About Drug Addiction
- Treatment Options for Union Members for Drug Addiction
Signs Of Drug Abuse
Signs of drug abuse can differ depending on the individual, their drug of choice, and the frequency of drug use. However, there are common signs of chronic drug use across all substances. It’s good to be aware of the common symptoms of drug abuse so you can identify it in yourself or others. Let’s explore the physical symptoms and psychological signs of drug abuse.
Physical Signs Of Drug Abuse
There are physical signs and symptoms to be aware of when it comes to drug abuse. These are some physical symptoms of drug abuse:
- Bloodshot or glazed eyes
- Poor skin tone
- Changes in appetite
- Dilated or constricted pupils
- Abrupt and noticeable weight fluctuation
- Problems sleeping or sleeping too much
- Appearing unkempt
- Poor physical coordination
- Unusual body odor
Psychological Signs Of Drug Abuse
In addition to physical symptoms, there are also psychological or mental signs of drug abuse. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
- Increased aggression or irritability
- Changes in attitude or personality
- Feelings of lethargy
- Mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety
- Posting concerning messages on social media
- Dramatic changes in habits or priorities
- Involvement in criminal activity
- Poor performance at work or school
- Issues with financial management
Long-Term Effects Of Drug Addiction
The longer someone is addicted to drugs, the worse effects the addiction has on the mind and body. There is an overwhelming amount of long-term addiction side effects. These are some of the most common long-term effects of drug abuse.
- Depression and other mood disorders
- Anxiety and panic disorders
- Paranoia
- Kidney damage
- Liver damage
- Heart damage
- Lung damage
The long-term effects of drug addiction will depend on what the drug is. For example, kidney failure is common for long-term users of heroin, MDMA, ketamine, and other dangerous drugs. However, regardless of your drug of choice, long-term effects are inevitable.
Drug Addiction in the Workplace Statistics
Drug addiction impacts every part of the user’s life, including work. According to a survey by the American Addiction Centers for Drug Abuse, 22.5% of people surveyed admitted to using drugs or alcohol during typical work hours. Further, one in four men reported using drugs or alcohol in their place of work, while one in five women say they have used substances in a professional setting. Additionally, more than one in five respondents say they’ve used marijuana recreationally in their place of work during work hours. Nearly 5% of people admit to using marijuana recreationally daily and over 13% say they use marijuana at work more than once a month.
Among the substances surveyed, more than 66% of respondents reported using alcohol once during work hours. The second most common substance to be used during work hours is marijuana at 22%. More than 10% of people admit to using prescription drugs on the clock, such as Oxycontin or Vicodin.
Drug Withdrawal Explained
The first step of drug addiction treatment for union members is drug withdrawal. Drug withdrawal is a physiological response to suddenly quitting a substance that the body has grown to depend on. Common symptoms of withdrawal include:
- Tremors
- Muscle pain or aches
- Hunger or loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Sweating
- Irritability
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Insomnia
- Paranoia
- Seizure
- Dilated pupils
What Human Resources Departments Need to Know About Drug Addiction
According to data from the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 70% of people who abuse drugs are employed. HR departments should know that union members are protected so that they’re able to receive addiction treatment.
Treatment Options For Union Members for Drug Addiction
If you or a loved one struggles with addiction, consider seeking help from a drug addiction treatment for union members with Union First. Union First is an employee assistance program that offers job protection and health services to union members, public union members, and their families. Find the care you need with help from Union First.
Union First offers job protection to every employee in drug rehab because we care about the welfare of our workers. This means that when you go to Union First for drug treatment and need time off work, we will provide it for you without issues. Not only that, but after you return to work, we will make sure your job is kept safe. If you have been struggling with addiction, contact Union First and get the help that you need.
Social Signs Of Drug Abuse
Not only can drug abuse cause physical and psychological symptoms, but it can also come with social consequences. Most often, people who misuse drugs or alcohol may withdraw socially and isolate themselves so they can continue to use in privacy without judgment or interference. Additionally, loved ones of drug users may set boundaries to keep themselves separate from those who are abusing drugs. No matter what drug it is that you abuse or misuse, there will be social, physical, and psychological consequences.