Signs of Juvenile Drug Abuse

Juvenile drug abuse isn't limited only to illegal drugs. Juveniles may abuse alcohol, prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, household items and tobacco. Knowing the signs of juvenile drug abuse can help parents and loved ones get help before the drug abuse claims the life of the child.

Outbursts

Angry outbursts are common in juveniles who are abusing drugs. Often, he will act aggressively toward those nearest to him. Conflicts at home, with friends or at school are possible. Generally, even small disagreements will cause a severe outburst.

Social

When a juvenile uses drugs, he may begin to push away his closest friends and family members. He may start hanging around with a different crowd of people. He may try to be secretive about where he is going and what is doing.

Health

A juvenile who is abusing drugs may develop health problems. Nose bleeds, headaches, abnormal sweating, seizures, cotton mouth, nausea/vomiting, weight loss and weight gain are all possible health-related symptoms associated with juvenile drug abuse. Additionally, she may suffer from depression.

Hygiene

Not taking care of personal hygiene or dramatically changing her personal hygiene routine is common in juveniles who are abusing drugs. She may look unkempt and dirty. She may wear long sleeve shirts all the time, even in the hottest weather. Wearing sunglasses constantly is another warning sign if she is trying to hide bloodshot eyes.

Physical Signs

A juvenile who is using drugs may have flushed cheeks, burns on hands or mouth, slurred speech or difficulty walking. Bloodshot eyes and track marks (needle marks) are also physical signs of juvenile drug abuse. Additionally, he may be unable to make and maintain eye contact.

Other Signs

A child who is using drugs may steal from family and friends. As such, missing household and personal items are a sign of juvenile drug abuse. Prescription drugs or over-the-counter drugs in the home may start to come up missing. Inhalants or other household cleaning products may begin to dwindle faster than normal. As such, anything in the home that may cause a "high" must be closely monitored.