Do you suspect that there are signs of substance abuse in your teen’s life? It might not be something that you are comfortable bringing up with them. You might also feel that it’s none of your business.
Drugs and alcohol are very accessible. No matter how you look at it, this isn’t good.
If you notice that your own teen is acting strangely, you owe it to them to at least broach the subject and see if there’s something behind it. Don’t be afraid to talk to them about their behaviors.
Keep reading for everything you need to know about the signs of substance abuse.
Table of Contents
1. Withdrawing from Friends and Family
Teens who have substance abuse issues often withdraw from those they love as they become more involved in their addiction. If your teen is suddenly spending more time alone or acting out of character, it may be a sign that they are using drugs or alcohol.
2. Increased Secrecy and Lying
As teens grow older, they become more independent and want to assert their independence. They may start to lie about their activities and who they’re hanging out with. They may also become more secretive, which can be a sign that they’re using drugs or alcohol.
They also may be trying to hide something from you, and it’s critical to get to the bottom of it. If they are using drugs or alcohol, they need your help to get treatment.
3. Angry Outbursts or Violent Behavior
This is often a result of the individual’s impaired judgment and poor decision-making skills, which can be exacerbated by substances. It can also lead to changes in mood and increased irritability which can further contribute to angry outbursts or violent behavior.
If you are concerned that your teenager may have alcohol or drug addiction, it is crucial to seek aid at your local recovery services.
4. Neglected Responsibilities at School and Home
Substance abuse problems in teens are often signified by the neglect of responsibilities at school and home. This can manifest in a number of ways, such as truancy, poor grades, and general apathy towards activities that were once enjoyed.
Teens may start to engage in risky behaviors, such as using drugs or alcohol, as a way to cope with the stress of their responsibilities.
5. Changes in Eating or Sleeping Habits
It can manifest in a number of ways, including changes in eating or sleeping habits. Teens who have substance abuse issues may start skipping meals, or they may become more withdrawn and isolate themselves from friends and family.
They may also start sleeping more or sleeping less, and they may have difficulty concentrating or making decisions. It’s vital to talk to them about it as their parent who cares for them.
Signs of Substance Abuse Awareness
As a parent, it is necessary to be aware of the signs of substance abuse in teens. Substance abuse can lead to serious problems, including addiction, health problems, and even death.
Although substance abuse can be difficult to identify, it is crucial to be aware of the signs in order to help prevent it. So, the earlier you can intervene, the better the outcome is likely to be.
There are many resources available to help you and your teen, so don’t hesitate to seek help.
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