What to Look For - Signs and Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder

The following signs and symptoms are early warning signs that may associated with substance use disorders

Physical changes and health signs:

• Changes in energy levels (hyperactivity, drowsiness or lethargy)

• Deterioration in personal grooming/hygiene and self-care

• Sudden weight loss or weight gain

• Unusual odor (breath, body, or clothing)

• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns

• Bloodshot eyes and abnormally sized pupils

• Frequent nosebleeds

• Seizures without a history of epilepsy

• Tremors, incoherent or slurred speech, impaired or unstable coordination

• Unexplained injuries, bruises or accidents 

  Psychological or social signs:

• Change in personality or usual attitude

• Changes in relationships (problems, new friends, hangouts, or hobbies)

• Changes in emotions and self-regulation, such as sudden mood swings, anxiety or worry,

  disassociation, outbursts, laughing, etc.

  Behavioural signs:

• Drop or change in attendance and performance at school

• Decreased level of engagement in school, extra-curricular and/or life activities

• Difficulty focusing

• Legal problems related to substance use

• Unexplained need for money or missing money or valuables

• Engaging in isolating behaviours or avoiding eye contact

• Using perfumes, incense or air freshener to hide the smell of smoke or drugs

• Using eye drops to mask bloodshot eyes and dilated pupils

• Changes in self-determination (independence, decision making, lack of "agency", etc.)

  Adapted from the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Inc. (NCADD)