(Adapted from “How to Help a Friend With a Drinking Problem” by The American College Health Association)

The following is a list of indicators that will help to alert you to possible substance abuse problems. There is no magic number or combination of indicators which definitively prove that a person has a substance misuse or abuse problem. However, the existence of several indicators may indicate a pattern of behavior that may need to be investigated further. In such instances you may wish to consult with an individual who has professional experience in dealing with substance misuse/abuse problems Please keep in mind that the college years are a time when students undergo a number of changes in behavior and attitudes as they adjust to the college environment. Some of these changes may resemble indicators of a problem with alcohol or other drugs.

Physical Indicators:

• Observed abnormalities of skin, eyes, coordination, and speech
• Pattern of frequent illnesses
• Digestive disturbances
• Evidence of withdrawal
• Decreased concern about grooming and appearance
• Passing out

Emotional Indicators:

• Use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs to deal with emotions
• Guilt about actions during intoxication
• Reduced emotional control
• Dramatic mood swings
• Guilt about use of alcohol, tobacco, and/or other drugs
• Anxious reactions
• Self-abusive behavior
• Depression

Cognitive Indicators:

• Decreased attention and concentration spans/Inability to focus on a task
• Increased forgetfulness
• Decreased problem-solving skills
• Blackouts (total memory loss for a period of time)

Social Indicators:

• Family and other relationship difficulties
• Financial problems
• Legal problems
• Friends who are regular users of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs
• Decreased leisure time activities and interests
• Poor work record/performance
• Fighting and/or physical aggression
• Personality change
• Offensive behavior or interference with the rights of others

Specific Behaviors

• Ignoring or excusing behavior associated with alcohol or other drug use problems, e.g., traffic accidents, physical injuries
• Acting irresponsibly, e.g., staying out late, not showing up for work, handing in assignments late
• Maintaining that there is no problem and highlighting other possible causes for observed indicators of a problem
• Acknowledging that there might be a problem, but that it is no big deal
• Lowered academic performance
• Poor judgment and decisions