ADDICTION RISK
Key signs to look out for that put you at risk of pill addiction – as brave Adam Collard opens up on depression battle
Symptoms can show up physically and mentally, and recognising them early can help you get the support you need
A HEALTH expert has revealed the key signs to look out for that can put you at risk of pill addiction.
It comes after Love Island star Adam Collard stunned fans after bravely admitting to having a painkiller and sleeping pill addictions.
2
2
Adam, 29, bravely turned to therapy and anti-depressants when he was struggling most.
He admitted battling painkiller and sleeping pill addiction the same year he proposed to his pregnant girlfriend Laura Woods.
But reality star Adam is not alone in facing pill addiction with millions across the UK fighting to beat it.
Whether taken in or outside of a prescription, many become reliant on medication such as Diazepam, Codeine, Morphine or even sleeping pills.
Read More in Health News
This often begins with an injury or illness, but these drugs are highly addictive and this can lead to overdose.
Dr Catherine Carney, Psychiatrist at Cheshire-based addiction rehab clinic, , says: "Popping painkillers is incredibly common.
"Opiate-based prescription painkillers are extremely addictive and can create a drug tolerance and dependence within as little as five to seven days of continuous use.
"Sleeping pills, weight loss pills, and medications for depression and anxiety can also be particularly problematic for people who begin to use them outside of the recommended dosage.
Most read in Health
"While a GP may stop a prescription if they feel a patient is misusing it, this often leads to the person looking online for alternatives due to withdrawal.
"If you are concerned about a loved one experiencing these signs, please contact a medical professional."
People living by seaside find it hardest to sleep as more sleeping tablets prescribed
Martin Preston at says that the pandemic has caused a massive spike in individuals purchasing illegal prescription drugs online.
If you’re worried about prescription drug addiction, the health expert has warned that there are key signs to watch out for.
These symptoms will be very similar, whether the person is a teenager or an adult or taking a stimulant or depressant prescribed drug, says Martin.
Symptoms can show up physically and mentally, and recognising them early can help you get the support you need.
A major red flag is experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you run out of your medication, warns Martin.
If you feel compelled to keep taking the drug, even when you want to stop, it’s a sign of dependence.
You might also notice changes in your sleep patterns, like sleeping too much or too little, or struggling to maintain a healthy appetite or weight.
Martin warned that prescription drugs can either suppress or increase hunger, making weight changes noticeable.
Mixing prescription drugs with alcohol or other substances is another big warning sign, says the health expert.
As tolerance builds, people often increase their dosage or switch to stronger drugs, whether their doctor is aware or not.
If you’re prioritising taking your medication over other aspects of life, like work, family, or friends, it’s a clear sign your drug use is taking over.
Martin also warned that changes in appearance, such as neglecting personal hygiene, are common in addicts, as is frequent intoxication.
This could mean slurred speech, lack of coordination, or being unusually energetic.
Prescription drug abuse also leads to severe mood swings—agitation, anxiety, or depression—as the effects wear off.
Mentally, addicts may start acting out of character, engaging in impulsive behaviour or isolating themselves from old friends.
Losing interest in hobbies or neglecting work and relationships are also signs that addiction has taken hold, Martin said.
If any of these signs sound familiar, it might be time to take a step back and seek help.
Prescription drug addiction is serious, but with support, it’s possible to get back on track.
Signs of a painkiller or prescription drug addiction
- Regular doctor visits for recurring medical issues
- Seeking multiple doctors for increased prescriptions
- Online purchase of prescription drugs
- Heightened anxiety over prescription refills
- Dishonesty about prescription drug use
- Non-compliance with prescription guidelines
- Defensive reactions to challenges on drug use
- Inability to halt or regulate drug consumption
- Appetite changes and significant weight fluctuations
- Pronounced anxiety, depression, and mood swings
- Neglect of personal hygiene and appearance
- Emotional withdrawal and unavailability
- Unusual hostility or aggression
- Feelings of guilt and shame about drug use
- Emergence of new health issues due to drug abuse
- Drastic alterations in sleep patterns
Other psychological signs of painkiller addiction include:
- Poor decision making such as engaging in risky situations
- Difficulty concentrating and focusing on tasks
- Memory problems and inability to think clearly
- Withdrawing from social situations and not being themselves
- Becoming more nervous or paranoid
- Constantly fidgeting or being unable to sit still
- Lying and becoming deceitful while trying to hide their behaviour
Source: Delamere
It comes after Adam Collard confessed to fans on Instagram that this year was "tougher than ever before".
Listing everything bad that happened to him in 2024, Adam said: "I struggled with my mental health more than ever. Lost something important. Struggled with injuries.
"I suffered with addiction to painkillers and sleeping pills and justified it as 'it doesn't affect fitness' or because it wasn't booze.
"Got diagnosed with depression. Prescribed anti-depressants. Lost family. Drifted from certain friends. Tried to reach out to people and failed. Felt lost."
Read More on The Sun
However, to inspire fans to keep going, he went on to say that it was also the "greatest year of my life".
Adam continued: "Remember you are always strong enough to reframe things and change the outcome."
GETTING HELP:
If you think that you have a drug addiction then please contact your GP.
You can also for honest information about drugs and to find local treatment services.
If you are having trouble finding the right help, call the FRANK drugs helpline on 03001236600
Or for more advice and support
Topics