Landers, A. Signs of a cocaine user. (1986, January 13). The Boston Globe.

OVERVIEW

Ann Landers published the following warning signs of a cocaine user:

• Pallor and perspiration.
• Dilated pupils.
• Runny nose and nosebleeds.
• The jitters and hyperactivity.
• Ability to go without food or sleep for long periods of time.
• Lack of interest in sex and sometimes inability to perform.
• Paranoia, anxiety, and suspiciousness.
• Loss of memory.
• Increase in energy and talkativeness, followed by lethargy and depression.
• A sudden carelessness about personal appearance.
• Broken appointments, broken promises, lying.
• Inability to explain what happened to the paycheck and money that was in the checking or savings account.

Said Landers, "If anyone out there cares about a person who has...(these) symptoms, be aware that you have a junkie on your hands but you cannot help him (or her) until that person is ready to admit it."