SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF TEEN DRUG ABUSE
One of the first ways you can prevent drug use is to tune into your kids. How do they behave
normally? Has a sudden change in behavior occurred? Is hygiene no longer important? Do they
withdraw from once loved activities and friends? Are their grades suffering? Drug abuse may
be to blame. Review the following warning signs to see if your teen may be abusing drugs:
- PHYSICAL:
- Bloodshot or red eyes
- Unexplained bruises or an increase in bruises
- Difficulty speaking or slurring of words
- Drastic change in appearance or weight
- Lack of attention to hygiene
- Poorly kept clothing and appearance
- Fatigue
- Persistent cough
- Change in sleep (insomnia or sleeping all day)
- SOCIAL:
- Lack of interest in things or activities that once brought enjoyment
- A sudden disassociation from friends
- A sudden acquiring of a new social group
- Dropping of grades
- Failure to go to school
- Secretive or sneaky behavior
- Staying out late frequently
- Stealing
- Leaving for extended time periods
- Sudden anger or agitation when asked about reason for behavioral changes
- Avoidance of eye contact
- EMOTIONAL:
- Suffers emotional breakdowns
- Very aggressive or argumentative
- Depression or withdrawal from social activities
- Irritability
- Lack of judgment skills
- BEHAVORIAL:
- Abnormal odor on breath or clothing
- Prescription medications, alcohol and/or money disappearing from the household
- Failure to meet responsibilities to work, school and extracurricular activities
- Notification from a teacher, coach or employer of abnormal behavior
- Discovering pipes, rolling papers, bongs, needles, powdery substances in their room
These signs, or any combination of them, may indicate a problem. With this information in
hand, you are now prepared to develop a plan of action for your home to stop drug abuse or
prevent it from starting.