Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 51 Behavioral Changes Keep an eye out for these behavioral changes: • Your loved one becomes more irritable or exhibits sudden mood swings or personality change without an obvious cause. • They become forgetful or clumsy when it is out of their nature. • They skip work, class, or other regular activities, or their performance in these areas suffers. • They lie, become more deceitful, and/or avoid eye contact. • They lose interest in personal appearance and/or things they once loved. • They have either a major loss or increase in appetite. • They have an extreme and sudden change in their choice of friends and hang-out locations. • They are suddenly asking to borrow money or have extra money with no obvious source. • They become angry and abusive, or engage in reckless behavior. Physical Symptoms of Opioid Abuse: • Confusion and lack of coordination • Lowered blood pressure • Dry mouth •Weakness, dizziness, sleepiness • Constricted pupils •Watery or droopy eyes • Nausea, vomiting, and constipation • Respiratory depression (inadequate ventilation) • Sleep deprivation or “nodding” • Slow, slurred speech • Slow gait • Dry skin, itching, or skin infections • Constant flu-like symptoms • Bruises or “track marks” (if injecting) Physical Symptoms of Depressant Abuse: • Decreased attention span • Impaired judgment • Lack of coordination/dizziness • Lowered blood pressure • Memory problems • Slurred speech • Respiratory depression • Slowed reflexes WARNING SIGNS OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGABUSE Notice the signs and symptoms of abuse before it is too late continued
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