Drug addiction is on the rise in Detroit. In an effort to offset the rise in drug use there have been more campaigns to increase awareness of the risks associated with drugs.

Identifying Drug Addiction in Detroit

The signs of addiction vary depending on the drug being abused, but there are still symptoms that can help determine whether you or someone you know in Detroit is heading towards addiction. Most of these signs are behavioral in nature, and they include the following:

• A desire to use the drug that increases in intensity or frequency
• Ongoing failure to stop using the drug
• Focusing on getting the drug including spending money that you cannot afford on drugs
• Taking risks to acquire or use drugs, and these risks may include stealing, meeting people in an environment you consider unsafe or dealing with strangers
• Feeling you need the drug to handle situations or feel normal
• Problems at school or work such as an inability to focus, increased absenteeism or isolation from peers
• Diminished physical appearance and health due to decreased attention to grooming, nutrition and appearance
• Mood-based behavioral changes such as increased anxiety or depression, not engaging in activities you used to enjoy or acting out for no apparent reason

Becoming Addiction to Prescription Medications in Detroit

Some addictions begin with the use of prescription medications for a legitimate need. Prescription drug users often do not question their doctor about the side effects or addiction potential of the medication they are taking. Believing that the doctor is giving them a medication that is safe reduces a Detroit resident’s likelihood to use the medication only as directed. There is a belief that if the antidepressant makes you feel slightly better at the current dose then an increased dose will make you feel even better. If a pain medication reduces your pain to a certain level, an increase will reduce the pain further. Regrettably not closely monitoring your medication use often leads to abuse. When the body starts to require the medication, dependence occurs. When the body needs more of the medication to achieve the baseline benefit, tolerance occurs. When dependence and tolerance come together, the risk of addiction is very high.

Detroit Residents Can Get Help for Drug Addiction

You don’t have to make one of the most important decisions of your life alone. We can help you explore your options for treating your or a loved one’s drug addiction, so please call our toll-free helpline today. We are available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you may have about addiction treatment services. We are here to help.