If you notice any of the following, you may want to seek help immediately.
Physical signs of substance abuse use:
Peculiar odors of marijuana, alcohol, or solvents on your child, on his or her clothing, in the house, or in the car
Presence of drugs or drug paraphernalia in your child’s environment or in dirty laundry (presence of seeds, leaves, or butts; use of small baggies, cigarette papers, tin foil, light bulbs)
Use of eye drops, room deodorizers, or incense
Slurred speech or intoxication (impairment of physical function may signal an event requiring immediate medical attention)
Noticeable changes in school performance (drop in grades or attendance, disciplinary reports from the school)
Sudden change in social pattern (new friends, activities, choice of music)
Secretiveness about friends or activities
Sudden change in family relations (withdrawal, belligerence, marked increase in family arguments either with parents or with siblings, especially regarding setting limits)
Noticeable change in personality (lethargy, loss of motivation or interest)
Sudden changes in mood (aggressive anger, sullenness, uncaring attitude and behavior)
Deterioration in physical appearance (general unhealthy appearance, bloodshot eyes, lack of alertness, decrease in neatness or personal hygiene)
Involvement in legal problems or delinquent behavior
Unusual financial problems, repeated pawning or selling of personal effects
Extreme dress, language, opinions, or behavior
What do I say/What can I do?
Even if you believe your teen is just “experimenting” it’s important to take action right away. Casual drug use can quickly turn into drug abuse, dependence or addiction and can lead to accidents, legal trouble and serious health issues.
If you are at all concerned about your child – or even just have a bad feeling – you can and should intervene by:
Setting tighter limits with clear consequences
Getting outside help and support if necessary
Having productive conversations with your child -- remain calm, share your concerns and listen.
Closely monitoring your child's behavior and activities
To see more Intervention tips and programs click here!
Is my child using?
Signs & Symptoms of Teen Substance Abuse
If you notice any of the following, you may want to seek help immediately.
What do I say/What can I do?
Even if you believe your teen is just “experimenting” it’s important to take action right away. Casual drug use can quickly turn into drug abuse, dependence or addiction and can lead to accidents, legal trouble and serious health issues.
If you are at all concerned about your child – or even just have a bad feeling – you can and should intervene by:
To see more Intervention tips and programs click here!
Source: The Partnership at drugfree.org
Where can I get help for my son/daughter?