How to Tell if Someone is High on Drugs, What You Can Do to Help | New York Post
By Marc Lallanilla | Published on December 1, 2023 at 9:10 p.m. ET
As holiday parties ramp up, people may notice friends and family members acting out of character – maybe they’re sweating on a cold evening, nervously licking their lips, talking nonstop or hardly speaking at all. These unusual behaviors might be signs of drug use, experts warn, especially when combined with alcohol during festive gatherings.
“When you add alcohol to any depressants, opiates, barbiturates or benzodiazepines, it’s very dangerous,” said Emily Skogrand, a clinical pharmacist at Oregon Health and Science University. “The risk of harm is much greater” with alcohol.
It’s not just teenagers and young people at risk; older adults, who may not metabolize prescription drugs well, can also be affected. “Anyone can take too much at any one time,” Skogard said. However, it’s important to remember that many prescription drugs have legitimate medical uses, so don’t jump to conclusions when someone shows signs of abuse.
If you’re socializing with someone who may have overindulged on any substance, offer to drive them home or take advantage of ride-sharing services. However, if you’re worried about a friend or family member’s drug use, keep in mind that they may not realize their habit has become a problem.
Experts point out that most people overcome their issues with drugs before any real harm occurs. In cases potentially involving opioids, like fentanyl or prescription painkillers, Skogrand suggests using Narcan (naloxone) to help prevent an overdose. This drug is now available without a prescription at many drug stores in multiple states.
Benzodiazepines, or “benzos,” are nervous system depressants often prescribed to manage stress and anxiety. Look for signs like drowsiness, slurred speech, or lack of coordination in people taking these drugs. Synthetic cannabinoid drugs like K2 and Spice are also dangerous, often leading to anxiety, paranoia or hallucinations.
Other substances with similar effects to amphetamines, like bath salts, can also cause severe intoxication, while crystal meth produces a rapid high that can lead to mood swings or tremors. Marijuana remains widely used and can lead to euphoria, red eyes, or decreased coordination in users.
It’s crucial to recognize these symptoms and offer help if you’re concerned about someone’s drug use. Remember, many people do overcome their issues with drugs before it’s too late. Although drug use may be a worry, it’s important to remember that help is often available, and drug users can recover.
