Parents of teenagers today worry about the possibility of drug use by their teenager. As a parent, it can be difficult to determine if your son or daughter is using drugs and/or alcohol. Some of the changes you notice in your child may simply be normal behavior of adolescence. It is important for parents to be educated regarding the signs and symptoms of drug use in order to differentiate adolescent behavior from that associated with drug and alcohol use.
As a parent, you know your child better than anyone. If you feel your child is acting suspiciously, pay attention to your gut feeling. The drugs used by teenagers today are dangerous. Every time they use they are playing Russian roulette with their life.
Listed below are some of the “red flags” or warning signs that may indicate your child is using drugs or alcohol. If you have a concern or think there may be a problem, seek help from a substance abuse counselor in your area. If you need help locating a counselor in your community The SOAR Program will be happy to assist you.
Changes In Academic Performance
- Slipping grades
- Frequently absent/ tardy
- Skipping classes
- Lack of motivation
- Changes in attitudes toward teachers
Changes in Behavior
- Changes in friends
- Avoidance of old friends
- Sudden desire for privacy
- Older social group
- Increased need for money
- Withdrawal, isolation from family
- Depression/anxiety
- Fatigue
- Dishonesty- lying, stealing
- Difficult to wake in the morning
- Coming in late at night/avoiding interaction with family
- Defies rules/uncooperative
- It’s not mine/belongs to a friend
- Friends use drugs
- Short term memory loss
- Angry when room is entered
- Secretive
- Legal issues- DWI/MIP/Theft
- Uncontrolled anger/violence
Changes in Physical Appearance
- Loss of interest in physical appearance
- Weight loss
- Blood shot eyes
- Dilated pupils
- Runny nose/eyes
- Frequent colds
- Increase in snack food hunger
- Slurred/rapid speech
- Pale complexion
- Circles under eyes
Physical Evidence
- Eye drops (Clear eyes, Visine)
- Mouthwash
- Breath sprays
- Burning incense in room
- Cigarette rolling papers
- Lighters
- Disappearance of alcohol/prescription pills from home
- Pro drug clothing
- Screens off of bedroom windows