Victims say they had drinks with Scott, went home with her, and later realized items were missing. They may also experience sudden bursts of energy followed by extreme exhaustion or depression. It’s important to note that these signs can vary depending on the type of drug being used and individual circumstances. Furthermore, some signs may overlap across different categories, highlighting the complex nature of drug use and its impact on various aspects of an individual’s life. The consequences go beyond just the immediate effects; those who are roofied might face various challenges, such as anxiety or PTSD, which can linger long after the event.
Impaired Memory and Cognitive Functioning
Some states require medical providers to report all sexual assaults and/or domestic violence—what happened to you may or may not fall into this category. Even if this is true in your state, you are not required to speak with law enforcement if you do not want to. In states without mandatory reporting, emergency department staff should ask if you would like them to notify the police.
NY woman drugged men she met on South Beach, stole their Rolexes: Miami Police
Assure them that seeking treatment is a positive step toward regaining control of their life. Encourage them to explore different treatment options, such as therapy, counseling, or rehabilitation programs, that can provide the necessary support and guidance for their recovery journey. If you suspect that someone may be using drugs, it is essential to seek professional help.
The FHE Health team is committed to providing accurate information that adheres to the highest standards of writing. This is part of our ongoing commitment to ensure FHE Health is trusted as a leader in mental health and addiction care. When most people think of drugs being used to immobilize victims, they think of Rohypnol. Commonly known as a roofie, rohypnol is a benzodiazepine, a class of anti-anxiety drugs that cause users to feel drowsy and confused.
Signs of Drug Use: How to Tell if Someone is on Drugs?
If you’re feeling distressed in how to know if someone drugged you the days, weeks, months or even years after being drugged, reach out for help. If you don’t know who to go to, or how you’ll afford therapy, call your local rape crisis center. Almost all have a hotline and advocates who can give you advice on what to do and where to go, as well as provide emotional support, Riviello said. Indications that you’ve been drugged and sexually assaulted include painful urination, genital pain, and possible genital bruising or tenderness, Riviello said. Sometimes the only sign you’ve been drugged is waking up and having no recollection of how the night went down.
Mood Swings and Unpredictable Behavior
If you notice someone displaying frequent and extreme shifts in their mood, it is important to approach the situation with sensitivity and understanding. Communicate your concerns in a non-confrontational manner and encourage them to seek professional help. Expressing concern and offering support is a crucial first step in helping someone who may be using drugs.
You might feel like you mysteriously lost a chunk of time or only remember what happened up until a certain point. Although it depends on the substance, common symptoms of being drugged include fatigue, dizziness, nausea, feeling drunk or intoxicated, disorientation and just not feeling well, according to Rowland. The date-rape drug you’ve likely heard about most is Rohypnol, which the ’90s slang “roofie” is a remnant of. You may change your mind at a later point when you feel safer or if you learn about other crimes this person has committed.
It’s important to note that these changes can also be caused by factors other than drug use. Therefore, it’s essential to consider these signs in conjunction with other behavioral and psychological indicators. Contact us today to learn about programs that can help you deal with the mental and physical effects of getting drugged.
Often, it takes a drugging victim a while to get a clear head and figure out what might have happened. This confusion is portrayed movingly in Michaela Cole’s hit HBO series, I May Destroy You. A third theft was reported on Nov. 9, 2024, when a victim said he was in South Beach when he met a woman, and they went to a bar and ended up at his apartment. A second theft was reported on Oct. 20, 2024, after another victim said he met a woman at a South Beach bar and brought her to his apartment.
- Although it depends on the substance, common symptoms of being drugged include fatigue, dizziness, nausea, feeling drunk or intoxicated, disorientation and just not feeling well, according to Rowland.
- It allows for early intervention, which can prevent the escalation of substance abuse and potential harm to the individual’s health, relationships, and overall well-being.
- Understanding the importance of identifying drug use and being aware of common signs and symptoms can make a significant difference in helping someone with addiction.
- GHB takes 12 hours to become undetectable in urine, but a hair test can show positive 30 days after it enters your system.
- If you wake up with marks on your body that you can’t explain, it’s essential to consider your experience closely.
These drugs are often used in an effort to commit sexual assault, but they can also be used to poison a victim. Persons who are subjected to harmful drugs against their will can pursue battery charges against their attackers. Most importantly, if you believe you are being drugged or have been drugged by someone who still has access to you, get yourself to safety. Contact your local domestic violence agency and make a safety plan with an advocate.
It’s important to note that these changes in mood and behavior can also be caused by other factors such as mental health issues. However, if you suspect someone is using drugs and notice these drastic changes in their behavior, it’s important to approach the situation with care and offer support and resources for help. Encourage them to seek medical attention and consider talking to a professional about their drug use.
- As soon as possible, tell someone you trust or a bystander that you think you’ve been drugged, so that you can make a record of whatever you remember and get medical care, Michonski said.
- Involvement in legal issues and trouble with the law is another social sign that may suggest drug use.
- In states without mandatory reporting, emergency department staff should ask if you would like them to notify the police.
If you have been drugged and/or sexually assaulted but do not want to identify the abuser, you can track the kit anonymously while you consider your options. It’s important to get a kit processed even if you do not intend to follow through with the police. Remember, your role is to be a source of support and encouragement, but ultimately, the decision to seek treatment lies with the individual. Patience, understanding, and consistent support can make a significant difference in their motivation to pursue a healthier and drug-free life.
They can guide you through the next steps and offer resources designed to help you recover. Drugging a person is an act of battery, even when no sexual or physical assault occurs. By approaching the situation with open communication, seeking professional help, and encouraging treatment and recovery, you can provide valuable support to someone struggling with drug use. Your support can play a vital role in their path to healing and regaining control of their life. If you notice someone being unusually secretive or deceptive, it may be an indication of drug use. It is important to approach the situation with empathy and open communication.