Signs and Symptoms of Substance Use Illnesses

The following behavioral changes are indications that someone may be suffering with a substance use illness:

Changes in Work Habits – Conflicts with Colleagues, absenteeism/lateness, increased patient complaints, neglect of patients or duties, appointments/schedules disorganized, decreased productivity, misses work or frequently is tardy because of illness or oversleeping; doesn't keep scheduled appointments; assignments are late and work is unacceptably inaccurate.

Changes in Behavior - Has become more irritable, defensive, jealous, easily angered, depressed or moody and these behaviors affect work and relationships at work; more withdrawn socially or professionally, alcohol on breath, unexplained weight change, or anxiety.

Change in Personal Care - Personal hygiene is deteriorating.

Changes in Prescribing Practices - Writing prescriptions for narcotics, stimulants or sedatives for self or office staff, requesting prescriptions for narcotics, stimulants or sedatives from colleagues, diverting patient’s narcotics, stimulants or sedatives for self use.