How can I tell if someone is lying to me about their drug use?

Well, you can't ever be completely sure if someone is lying or not about their drug use, but there is a bit of an art to it if you can read the body language. If they look to the left, they are lying, and if they look to the right, they are remembering something to tell you about it. Now, this isn't exactly foolproof and won't always work. If you have huge concerns about someone lying, you can try confronting them.

Often times people who abuse substances lie about their behavior, and for many different reasons. Knowing the signs and symptoms of substance abuse can help you talk to someone who may be struggling with addiction. Behavior changes: itchy, constantly sniffling, acting paranoid, and withdraw from social groups and personal interests and hobbies. Psychological changes: Paranoia that does not go away, anger/hostility, depression, memory loss. Interpersonal changes: Withdraw from friends/family, social groups, personal interests, trouble managing finances, breakdown of significant relationships. Knowing whether or not someone is lying is not as important as being able to tell if someone is struggling with addiction and helping them get the help they need. While the above list is by no means comprehensive, it is a starting point. People who struggle with substance abuse need help, and simply talking to them and offering an empathetic ear can be a great starting point.

Pay attention to problems happening at school or work. While missing work or school can be a sign of drug use, sometimes spending too much time working can also be a sign there is drug use occurring. Friends at school or work may also change if there is a new drug problem. They may have made new friends who share the same habit. Consider your loved one’s money habits. Even small changes like not being quite as open as they have been in the past about money can mean there is something to hide like a drug or alcohol issue. Overdue bills are another sign that money is being spent on things that are out of the ordinary as well.