Signs and Symptoms

Below is a list of potential signs and symptoms that can indicate a Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Please note that this is not a complete list, nor does seeing any of these characteristics or signs necessarily mean that an individual has an SUD. Contact AskPETRA to help you decide what to do if you feel like someone you know is showing signs of any of the following behaviors:

  • Not interested in hobbies or activities that they used to enjoy
  • Changes in mood or attitude
  • Changes in behavior including paranoia, anxiousness, or irritability
  • Avoids eye contact
  • Change in weight or appearance
  • Change in eating or sleeping patterns
  • Spending more money than usual
  • A decline in performance at work or school
  • Change in peer group
  • Secretive behavior
  • A tendency to disappear for hours at a time
  • Fading relationships with family or friends
  • Is not present when in conversation
  • Makes excuses or lies
  • Change in daily routine
  • Change in sexual behavior