SIGNS OF OPIOID ADDICTION

It is important to understand the signs of opioid addiction to better be able to diagnose and recognize it in patients and surrounding community members. The signs and symptoms of opioid addiction fall into four main categories: behavioral, physical, cognitive, and psychosocial.

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Behavioral symptoms include numerous visits to various doctors’ offices for pill prescriptions, long-term use of opioids, weak performance at work or school, reduced participation in activities that were once enjoyed by the user, ignoring obligations and responsibilities, and using opioid substances in dangerous situations (such as when driving).

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Physical symptoms include hought slow-down and physical movement reduction, insomnia and sleep issues, mental tension, anxiety, emotional distress, restlessness, drowsiness, pupillary constriction, respiratory depression, and constipation.

Cognitive symptoms include suicidal tendencies, impaired judgment, continuous cravings for opioids, memory impairment, and attention and focus issues.

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Psychosocial symptoms include depression, anxiety, withdrawing from family and friends, feelings of euphoria, experiencing decreased interest in activities the patient once used to enjoy.

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Recognizing the signs and symptoms of opioid addiction in others can result in increased rates of treatment and intervention, to reduce the rate of abusers and eventual overdoses.