What is a common behavioral sign of substance abuse?

A common behavioral sign of substance abuse is the deterioration of physical appearance. Individuals who are abusing substances may neglect personal hygiene, experience significant changes in weight, or show signs of poor health due to the impact of the substance on their body. This deterioration often reflects the prioritization of obtaining and using the substance over maintaining one’s health and well-being. It can manifest in various ways, such as unkempt hair, lack of care in clothing, dental issues, or poor grooming habits.

While fearfulness, frequent mood swings, and financial problems can also be associated with substance abuse, they do not directly reflect the physical effects on an individual’s appearance. Deterioration of physical appearance provides a more immediate and visible indication of the consequences of substance use.