If you are reading this, then you are likely concerned about your loved one’s drug use. You may be feeling a range of intense emotions, including fear, anger, frustration, sadness, and helplessness. You may be wondering what you can do to help your loved one and how to protect yourself and your family. With the right information and support, you can help your loved ones get the treatment they need and start on the road to recovery. Keep reading to learn how to tell if your loved one is talking about drugs and what you can do about it.
They may use slang terms to talk about drugs.
If you are close to someone using drugs, you may hear them refer to drugs using slang terms. This can make it difficult to understand what they are talking about, and it can be hard to know how to help them. Knowing what these terms mean can help you better understand your loved one’s drug use, and it can help you to provide them with the support that they need. Some of the most common slang terms for drugs include:
- “Molly” typically refers to MDMA or ecstasy.
- “Meth” is short for methamphetamine.
- “Shrooms” are psilocybin mushrooms.
- “Crack” and “Blow” are both slang for cocaine
- “Smack” typically refers to heroin.
They’re referencing drug paraphernalia.
Drug paraphernalia is anything that is used to facilitate drug use. This can include syringes, straws, pipes, and bongs. It can also include things like aluminum foil, which is often used to roll up cigarettes with marijuana. Drug paraphernalia is not just limited to objects, either. It can also include clothing, tattoos, and jewelry. People who use drugs may develop a certain look associated with drug use. This look can include track marks on the arms, scabs on the lips, and bloodshot eyes. Their physical appearance can also include drug paraphernalia. Drug paraphernalia can signify that someone is using or talking about drugs. If you see drug paraphernalia on someone, be sure to approach them and talk to them about it.
They may have changes in their mood or behavior.
If you are concerned that your loved one is using drugs, you may notice changes in their mood or behavior. Some common signs of someone using drugs include becoming more secretive, being less communicative, or changing their appearance. Drug use can also lead to mood swings, violence, criminal activity, and stress. Mood changes can happen with all types of drugs. Some people might become more talkative and energetic after taking stimulants like cocaine, while others might become more relaxed and sleepy after taking depressants like alcohol or heroin. Mood swings may be subtle, too. It’s best to keep an eye on your loved one’s fluctuating moods and figure out when they’re most excited, as this could indicate moments of drug use.
They may have changes in their social circles.
If your loved one is using drugs, they may have changes in their social circles. Friends who used to be supportive may now be using drugs as well, and your loved one may be spending more time with them. This can be dangerous, as using drugs with friends can lead to more drug use and unsafe behaviors. It’s important to talk to your loved ones about the dangers of using drugs with friends and encourage them to spend more time with supportive people instead. You can also offer to be there for them when they need support and be a positive influence in their life.
These signs indicate that your loved one is struggling with an addiction. If this is the case, make sure you reach out to a mental health professional and guide your loved one through the therapy process.