Addiction controls the user’s life. Things that were once important will not matter as much anymore, and the individual may show signs of irresponsibility, neglect of duties, and withdrawing from friends and family. Someone with a substance addiction will primarily be focused on getting more of their substance, and may exhibit drug-seeking behavior.

Over time, addiction can lead to physical and behavioral changes in the person, some of the signs of addiction are:

• Drop in grades or work performance
• Changes in friends
• Sudden financial issues
• Irritability
• Increased need for privacy
• Lethargy
• Anxiety
• Dilated or constricted pupils
• Sudden weight gain or loss
• Slurred speech
• Changes in sleeping or eating habits
• Increased use of breath mints or air fresheners
• Decreased coordination
• Seizures