How do
you know when to seek help? Signs of Drug Abuse
The earlier one seeks help for their teen's behavioral or drug
problems, the better. How is a parent to know if their teen is
experimenting with or moving more deeply into the drug culture? Above
all, a parent must be a good and careful observer, particularly of the
little details that make up a teen's life. Overall signs of dramatic
change in appearance, friends, or physical health may be signs of
trouble. If a parent believes his or her child may be drinking or
using drugs, here are some things to watch for:
-
Emotional
distancing, isolation, depression, or fatigue
-
Change in
friendships or extreme influence by peers
-
Hostility,
irritability, or change in level of cooperation around the house
-
Lying or
increased evasiveness about after school or weekend whereabouts
-
Decrease in
interest in personal appearance
-
Physical changes
such as bloodshot eyes, runny nose, frequent sore throats, rapid
weight loss
-
Changes in mood,
eating, or sleeping patterns
-
Dizziness and
memory problems
From:
http://www.drug-rehabs.com/adolescent-substance-abuse.htm
More Signs of Drug Abuse:
1.
Neglected appearance
2.
Poor self image /hygiene
3.
Grades dropping
4.
Violent outbursts at home
5.
Frequent use of Eye Wash
6.
Unexplained weight drop
7.
Drug Paraphernalia
8.
Slurred speech
9.
Curfew violations
10.
Running away
11.
Skin abrasions
12.
Hostility towards family members
13.
Chemical breath
14.Glassy eyes
15.Red eyes
16.Valuables Missing
17.
Possessing unexplained valuables
18.
Stealing/borrowing money
19.Change in friends
20.
Depression
21.
Withdrawal
22.Apathy
23.Reckless Behavior
24.No Concern about future
25.
Defiles Family Values
26.
Disrespectful to parents
27.
Lying/Deception
28.
Sneaky behavior
29.
Disregards Consequences
30.
Loss of Interest in healthy activities
31.
Verbally abusive
32.
Manipulative/Self-Centered
33.
Lack of Motivation
34.
Truancy
