Signs and Symptoms of Valium Addiction

Addiction abuse or dependency on a prescription drug such as Valium occurs due to the “rebound effect” of the drug. The user acquires a chemical dependency on the drug. When the addict uses the drug to aid withdrawal, symptoms can be worse as a result. Often, dependency occurs when users don’t follow prescription guidelines, either by taking more than the recommended doses or taking the drug for longer than was originally intended. What may start out as a course of drugs to help relieve pain over a matter of weeks can turn into an addiction after several years of repeated use.

Recognizing Signs of Valium Use and Dependence

Most drug addictions start with casual or social use of a substance. For some people, this is as far as it goes. For other people, using the drug becomes a habit and use becomes more and more frequent. As time passes, you may need larger doses of the drug to get high or feel good. As your drug use increases, you may find that it becomes increasingly difficult to go without the drug. Stopping may cause intense cravings and make you feel physically ill (withdrawal symptoms). Drug addiction symptoms or behaviors include:

• Feeling that you have to use the drug regularly — this can be daily or even several times a day
• Failing in your attempts to stop using the drug
• Making certain that you maintain a supply of the drug
• Spending money on the drug even though you can’t afford it
• Doing things to obtain the drug that you normally wouldn’t do, such as stealing
• Feeling that you need the drug to deal with your problems
• Driving or doing other risky activities when you’re under the influence of the drug
• Focusing more and more time and energy on getting and using the drug

Valium Use Signs and Symptoms

The particular signs and symptoms of drug use and dependence vary depending on the type of drug. You might be able to tell that a family member or a friend is using or abusing a drug based on the physical and behavioral signs and symptoms associated with the drug.

Benzodiazepines like Valium are prescription central nervous system depressants. Signs of use and dependence can include:

• Drowsiness
• Slurred speech
• Lack of coordination
• Memory impairment
• Confusion
• Slowed breathing and decreased blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Depression

The most common effects of Valium are sleepiness and clumsiness. Valium addiction abuse carries with it issues surrounding withdrawal for those who are unfortunate enough to become addicted.

Recognizing Drug Abuse in Teenagers

If a parent suspects their teenager is using drugs and might need Valium addiction help, there are some clear indicators that can verify that suspicion. Possible indications that your teenager is using drugs include:

• Problems at school—Frequently missing classes or missing school, a sudden disinterest in school or school activities, and a drop in grades may be indicators of drug use.
• Physical health issues—Lack of energy and motivation may indicate a child is using certain drugs.
• Neglected appearance—Adolescents are generally concerned about how they look. A lack of interest in clothing, grooming or looks may be a warning sign of drug use.
• Changes in behavior—Teenagers enjoy privacy, but exaggerated efforts to bar family members from entering their rooms or knowing where they go with their friends might indicate drug use. Also, drastic changes in behavior and in relationships with family and friends may be linked to drug use.
• Spending money—Sudden requests for money without a reasonable explanation for its use may be a sign of drug use. One may also discover money stolen from previously safe places at home. Items may disappear from their home because they’re being sold to support a drug habit.

Valium Addiction Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with a Valium addiction and need Valium detoxification, we can help. Please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5703. We are available 24 hours a day on Valium addiction and treatment. Look at this Valium addiction video for more insight.