Signs & Symptoms of Teenager Drug Use
What should a parent be watching out for?
Many signs of alcohol or drug abuse, in isolation, may be just normal teenager behavior. If a child or teen you
know is exhibiting a combination of these signs, substance abuse may be at the heart of the problem.
Behavior
- Change in overall personality
- Hidden stashes of alcohol
- Moodiness, irritability, or nervousness
- Sudden oversensitivity or resentful behavior
- Secretive phone calls, texting or instant messages
- Extreme hyperactivity; excessive talking
Personal Appearance/Habits
- Poor hygiene
- Messy, careless appearance
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Concealed marks or lines on arms or legs
- Chewing gum or mints to cover up breath
- Smell of smoke on breath or clothes
School
- Drop in grades
- Defiant of authority or complaints from teachers
- Truancy or loss of interest in schoolwork
- Loss of interest in school activities, hobbies or sports
Family/Friends
- Withdrawal from family members
- Disengage in family activities
- Change in friends; secretive about new friends
Health
- Sweatiness
- Depression
- Sores, spots around mouth
- Dilated pupils or bloodshot eyes
- Inability to sleep or unusual sleep patterns
- Runny nose, not caused by allergies or a cold
- Unexplained nosebleeds, nausea or vomiting
Home
- Locked bedroom doors
- Frequently breaks rules and curfews
- Missing household funds or valuables
- Excessive need for privacy; unreachable
- Increased use of air fresheners, scented candles, or incense
Money Issues
- Unexplained need for money
- Not able to account for spending
- Found cheating or stealing
If you have questions or are concerned about a teen or adolescent you know, contact Gateway and let us provide you with the answers you need.
