With 11 million American adults living with a Substance Use Disorder in the United States, it has become evident that addiction is an ever-growing problem. Addiction often carries with it a number of side effects, such as the haggard look of addiction. This external sign is an indication of the numerous negative internal consequences that come as a result of substance abuse.

The haggard look of addiction is a physical sign that someone is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol. It can be characterized by poor skin condition, red or glassy eyes, rapid weight gain or weight loss, clumsiness, and a lack of motivation. These physical changes are often a result of a number of medical issues, such as nutritional deficiencies, inadequate sleep, dehydration, and a lowered immune system.

When an individual does not get enough nourishment, their body’s ability to fight off infection and illness becomes significantly weakened, thus creating a much higher likelihood of experiencing physical illnesses. This loss of energy and immunity from nutritional deficiencies can lead to an individual looking more tired and haggard than usual.

In addition to the physical consequences of addiction, there can also be psychological ramifications. Addiction is an incredibly taxing task on an individual’s brain. Abusing substances has been linked to a number of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. People who are addicted to drugs or alcohol often become preoccupied with using and thinking about using, which can lead to them not getting enough sleep as they are often busy preparing and obtaining their substance of choice. This lack of sleep coupled with the fact that drugs can have a severe impact on a person’s mindset can contribute to the haggard look of addiction.

The haggard look of addiction can also be a result of withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal is the process the body goes through when quitting drugs or alcohol, and can often make an individual look drained and even disheveled. It can cause a person to become tired and irritable, and their skin can become dry and aged. Often someone in withdrawal will also experience a decrease in appetite, which can cause significant weight loss, thus intensifying their haggard look.

Although the haggard look of addiction is often a physical sign of how drugs and alcohol are affecting a person’s life, it is important to note that it can also be the result of co-occurring disorders. Recent research has found that around 8 million American adults experience both a mental illness and Substance Use Disorder simultaneously. It is not yet certain whether the mental illness is the cause or result of the addiction, however, it is clear that the presence of both a mental illness and addiction can significantly increase the chances of an individual looking haggard as a result of their addiction.

It is easy to recognize the haggard look of addiction; however, the most important point to make is that it is a sign of something much deeper. The haggard look of addiction is an indication that someone is struggling with a serious problem. In order to effectively help someone with addiction, it is important to understand the dangers of the physical, psychological, and social consequences of substance use. Professional help should be pursued to ensure the best possible outcome for the individual.