Making the Diagnosis
Urine and blood tests can show evidence of drug abuse, but cannot distinguish
between drug use and abuse. However, there are differences between drug use
and drug abuse. The following behaviors are signs of drug abuse:
- not being able to quit using the drug
- neglecting family and friends
- not being able to work or study
- manipulating, lying, and stealing to support an addiction
- starting to use the drug again after having quit (relapse)
- using drugs to relax, to feel better about oneself
- using drugs while alone