Substance use is widespread in the United States, according to survey results from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that among people aged 12 and older, 58.3% had used tobacco, alcohol, an illicit drug, or vaped nicotine in the past month.
While many adolescents and adults use substances, you may be wondering: How can I tell if someone is on drugs? Recognizing the signs someone is on drugs isn’t always straightforward, but there are common patterns to watch for. Some signs apply across many substances, while others may point to specific types of drug use. In this article, we’ll cover both.
Signs Someone Is On Drugs
Understanding the signs someone is on drugs can help you identify when a loved one may be struggling and at risk of harming their health, relationships, or responsibilities.
Common signs of drug use include:
- Difficulties at work or school, or a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
- Being chronically late or frequently canceling plans
- Appearing tired, disengaged, or unmotivated
- Changes in physical appearance, such as wearing inappropriate clothing or neglecting personal hygiene
- New behaviors, such as social withdrawal or increased secrecy
- Drastic changes in relationships
- Spending more money than usual or frequently borrowing money
- Difficulty managing finances, including unpaid bills
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Bloodshot eyes, poor skin tone, or a consistently fatigued appearance
- Becoming defensive or angry when asked about substance use
While everyone experiences ups and downs, consistent behavioral or personality changes may signal a deeper issue, such as substance misuse. If you’re asking yourself, “How can I tell if someone is on drugs?” it may already indicate that something already feels off.
Signs of Drug Use in a Spouse
Recognizing the signs of drug use in a spouse can feel especially difficult. The emotional closeness and shared responsibilities can make it harder to separate normal relationship challenges from potential substance use.
You may notice mood swings, secrecy, dishonesty, or changes in physical appearance. Additional signs of drug use in a spouse may include:
- Missing money or reduced transparency about finances
- Mood swings, ranging from high energy to irritability or depression
- Secret-keeping or lying
- Staying out late or leaving without explanation
- Loss of interest in family life or shared activities
- Frequent job changes or ongoing issues at work
- Making excuses for your partner’s behavior in social situations
While there is hope for your partner to recover, if you suspect drug use in your spouse, it’s important that you keep yourself safe. That might require getting physical distance or separating your finances. Oftentimes, treatment for individuals who have a problem with drugs will include the partner in some way–this helps break the cycle of drug addiction.
It’s also important that relationship problems be treated–these issues don’t go away once the drug use stops. Many couples are surprised and sometimes disappointed to discover that they still have some difficulties after the substance abuse has stopped.
What Are Drug Addict Hands?
Another potential physical sign of long-term drug use is the appearance of “drug addict hands.” This term commonly refers to a condition known as Puffy Hand Syndrome, which can occur with prolonged intravenous drug use.
Drug addict hands may include:
- Swelling. Hands appear puffy and enlarged, often affecting both sides
- Redness or discoloration. Skin may look red, blotchy, or uneven
- Skin changes. Fluid retention can make the skin appear thick, tight, or leathery
- Visible injection sites. Small marks, scars, or ulcers from repeated injections
While not everyone who uses drugs will experience this condition, it can be a visible indicator of chronic intravenous drug use.
Sana at Stowe Can Help
If you suspect that someone you love is facing drug addiction, please know that there are options for recovery. By recognizing the signs that someone is on drugs, offering support, and encouraging professional help for their addiction, you can help them on their road to recovery.
For those struggling with substance abuse or who need guidance with detox and withdrawal management, the time to seek help is now. Sana at Stowe in Vermont offers inpatient detox and residential drug rehab services. You can start your recovery with treatment surrounded by the serenity of the Green Mountains. Contact Sana at Stowe today at 866-575-9958 to learn more about our personalized treatment options and how we can help your loved one reclaim their life from addiction.
