While teenagers often display unusual behavior and rebellious attitudes as part of the maturation process, there are other recognizable signs parents and educators can watch for that signal substance abuse. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, in a study from 2007 to 2008, nearly 16 percent of tenth graders reported using illegal drugs other than marijuana in their lifetimes. Approximately 24 percent of eighth graders and more than 32 percent of tenth graders reported marijuana use.
Step 1
Consider a sudden decline in grades and academic achievements as a sign of possible youth drug abuse. According to the American Council for Drug Education, parents and teachers should become suspicious when a youth's school performance doesn't match previous achievements and abilities.
Step 2
Keep a list of the child's friends. If there is a sudden change in friendships, often accompanied by a shift in social activities and outside interests, there is a possibility that the child may be into drugs and other risky behavior.
Step 3
Watch for drastic personality changes that don't seem related to any other conditions. Children using drugs may become withdrawn and more moody than normal, change sleeping and eating patterns or become guarded in their communications with family members and teachers.
Step 4
Be aware of secretive behavior, such as hiding backpacks and jackets or taking phone calls in private more often. Children using drugs may become more defensive when questioned about secretive behavior as well.
Step 5
Look for physical changes that could indicate drug use. Bloodshot eyes, repeated respiratory illnesses, weight loss and listlessness may point to drug abuse in teens. Youths injecting drugs often will wear long sleeves in warm weather.
Step 6
Expect to see some changes in how the youth handles money. She may ask for more loans or an increase in allowance. You may find money missing from your wallet or other places around the house. The teen often won't have money to pay for necessary items she used to be able to pay for herself, such as cosmetics or magazines.
Tips and Warnings
- Often children will try to mask the odors associated with their drug use by burning incense or wearing perfume and cologne. They might begin using mouthwash (when they never did before) or using eye drops to clear up bloodshot eyes.
- Get immediate help if you find paraphernalia that links your child to dangerous substance abuse activities, such as common household products like glue or correction fluid and rags in paper bags.
