Drug Abuse Checklist: Signs And Symptoms Of Drug Abuse, Part 2 of 2

Here is part 2, a basic checklist of drug abuse frequently used by counselors to see if alcohol and other drugs may be an issue in someone’s life.

6. Health problems

Are there medical conditions which decrease tolerance or increase the risk of substance abuse problems?
Are there medical situations which are aggravated by repeated alcohol or other drug use?
Did the person ever suffer an accident or disability while under the influence, even if it is denied by the person?

7. Job problems

Is the person underemployed or unemployed?

Has the person missed work or gone to work late due to use of alcohol or other drugs?
Does the person blame the drinking on work related problems?

8. Problems with significant others 

Has a family member or friend expressed concern about the person’s use?
Have important relationships been lost or impaired due to chemical use?

9. Problems with law or authority

Has the person been in trouble with authorities or arrested for any alcohol or drug related offenses?
Have there been instances when the person could have been arrested but wasn’t?
Does the person seem angry at “the system” and at authority figures in general?

10. Financial problems

Is the person’s spending money easily accounted for?
Does the person frequently miss making payments when they are due?

11. Belligerence

Does the person appear angry or defensive but doesn’t know why?
Is the person defensive or angry when confronted about chemical use?

12. Isolation

Does increasing isolation suggest heavier substance abuse?
Is the person giving up or changing social and family activities in order to use?

Tagged as: drug-abuse, Drugs, money, Relationships