Parents Against Drug Dealing

Signs & Symptoms Of Drug Use & Abuse

How can I recognize if my teenager has a drug abuse problem?
Certain factors predispose teenagers to drug abuse. These include a family history of substance abuse, a history of depression and low self-esteem, feelings of not fitting in, and dropping out of the mainstream. A smoking habit has likewise been correlated with substance abuse. Teens who smoke are eight times more likely to use marijuana, and twenty-two times more likely to use cocaine. By knowing the specific warning signs and monitoring your teenagers behaviors, you can intervene earlier if a problem develops.

Five areas to evaluate for help in determining if a drug problem is present in your teen:

Physical Warning Signs

Fatigue
Repeated Health Complaints
Red And Glazed Eyes
Lasting Cough
Emotional Warning Signs

Personality Change
Sudden Mood Changes
Irritability
Irresponsible Behavior
Poor Judgment
General Lack Of Interest
Family Dynamics

Starting Arguments
Negative Attitude
Breaking Rules
Withdrawing From Family
Secretiveness
School Behaviors

Decreased Interest
Negative Attitude
Drop In Grades
Many Absences
Truancy
Discipline Problems
Social Problems
Problems With The Law

New friends who make poor decisions and are not interested in school or family activities.
Changes to less conventional styles in dress and music.
Two other behaviors that can strongly indicate an addiction problem are a sudden disregard in physical appearance, and requests for money that are out of the ordinary. Teenagers tend to be very concerned about fitting in and looking good among their peers, so be aware of a disinterest in dress or personal style. And since a drug habit is costly, money could be stolen from previously protected places like purses, or items may disappear from the house that have been sold for drugs.

Smell of alcohol on breath or sudden, frequent use of breath mints. Sudden use of strong perfume or cologne.  Heightened secrecy about actions or possessions.

None of these symptoms by themselves definitively point to a drug abuse or addiction problem. They could be the result of an undetected medical condition or other psychological issues. It is important to seek the advice of a mental health expert for evaluation and withhold making a diagnosis of drug abuse based solely on your observations.

IF YOU THINK YOUR CHILD IS USING DRUGS, TAKE ACTION IMMEDIATELY!