Teens and Substance Abuse

Some teenagers are more likely than others to get attracted to and get hooked on substances. The risk in teens increases with factors including a family history of alcohol, drugs or smoking, family unrest, learning difficulties resulting in school failure, low self-esteem, behavior problems, and rebelliousness.

The following are some signs that can help parents decide if a problem is looming or their child is already involved in substance use. Adolescence is a bumpy ride and some of these warning signs may only be the normal symptoms of growing up, but parents must be alert to the possibility that, with their child, they may indicate trouble.

• Fatigue, repeated health complaints, red and glazed eyes, and a lasting cough.
• A change of friends from those you know and new friends who seem to avoid you.
• A best friend who is involved in substance abuse. This is the single best indicator of use.
• Deterioration in appearance. Not taking care of their looks or overindulging in their looks to mask their abuse habits.
• A decline in performance at home. Chores may be neglected or done sloppily; curfews may be ignored.
• A change in school performance. The drop in grades may or may not be a dramatic sign by itself, but watch for tardiness, truancy, and disciplinary problems.
• Hypersensitivity, irritability. The teenage user is often hostile, avoids family contact, overreacts to mild criticism, and deflects the topic when pressed for accountability. 
• Wide mood swings. Although mood changes are a normal part of adolescence, extreme emotional swings indicate a problem and may be the result of drug or alcohol use.
• The disappearance of money, personal belongings, cigarettes, or alcohol from the house.