Teens are curious individuals who feel that they are invincible. Teenagers are constantly trying to become their own person and test the boundaries that authority figures have set in place for them. Sometimes, these types of behaviors lead to experimentation with alcohol and drugs, which can lead a teen to develop substance abuse or addiction. A teenager, who is abusing drugs or alcohol, will use despite the negative consequences it is having on their relationships and school performance. Generally, teens who abuse drugs or alcohol may get into legal trouble due to the substance use or engage in high-risk behaviors while intoxicated, such as driving.
Step 1
Look for a family history of drug or alcohol abuse. According to MayoClinic.com, teens with family members who have battled with drug or alcohol problems are more at risk for developing these problems themselves. Ask the teen about her parents' alcohol use. Determine if the teen knows if anyone in her family has used drugs. Listen to the teen talk about her experience with drugs or alcohol to determine if she has witnessed excessive use by family members. Ask if any relatives were treated for alcoholism or drug addiction.
Step 2
Screen the teenager for mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. Teens Health reports that mood disorders, such as depression, can increase a teenager's risk of developing substance abuse problems.
Step 3
Determine what type of living conditions the teen is exposed to. Both living in impoverished conditions and having easy access to drugs or alcohol, which commonly occurs together, can increase the teen's risk of developing problems with drug or alcohol abuse. Ask the teen about where his family lives. Ask the teen if he would know where to get drugs if he wanted them.
Step 4
Notice the teen's level of self-esteem. Low levels of self-esteem and the experience of social rejection can put a teen at higher risk for turning to drugs or alcohol as a way of coping, notes MayoClinic.com. Talk with the teen about how she feels about herself. Determine if the teen has a positive group of friends. Note whether the teen carries herself in a confident manner.
Step 5
Find out if the teen has experimented with drugs or alcohol in the past. The pleasurable experience that drug or alcohol use can induce may lead a teen to forgo the inherent risks and continue using drugs or alcohol. This recreational use may increase over time and turn into abuse. Have an open and accepting discussion with the teen about his past use. Ask him to tell you whether he has tried drugs or alcohol. Avoid getting upset with him if he has. Instead, express to him how that made you feel and that you want him to be safe.
