Signs Your Teen Is Struggling With Substance Abuse

Raising teenagers comes with its challenges, and in the ever-changing world we live in today there are plenty of challenges to worry about. But possibly the most intimidating challenge of them is addressing the presence of drugs and alcohol in your teen’s lives. With substance abuse on the rise, it’s important to be a parent who discusses the dangers of drugs with their teens. Substance abuse is defined as the long-term and pathological use of drugs or alcohol.

Nearly 9% of 12 to 17-year-olds reported using drugs just last month, and by 8th grade, 26% of American kids have tried alcohol. Meaning there’s a strong chance your teen will be presented with substances that without the proper knowledge or wherewithal they may turn to, and in turn, the relationship with the drug could turn into an abusive tendency. Currently, 11.2% of all overdose deaths are attributed to those aged between 15 and 24 years old. It’s clear substance abuse and mental health is more important now than ever.

Knowing the signs of substance abuse and what to look for in your teen’s attitude, appearance, and overall livelihood is important in identifying an issue. Below, we’ve put together 5 signs to look for that indicate your teen may be struggling with substance abuse. 

Sudden Friendship Changes Or Shifts 

Changes in friendships are common, especially in our teenage years when we’re just trying to figure out but be on the lookout for a sharp and sudden change in friendships. For instance, if your teen has had a group of friends for years but suddenly doesn’t speak with any of them anymore, it might be worth checking in and having a conversation with your teen about their social circle. Maybe they just need a breather, but it could be an indicator of a much bigger issue at hand. 

Appearance Changes

One of the most apparent signs of substance abuse is a change of appearance. Typically, the appearance changes people suffer from substance abuse problems depending on the substance. Alcohol can bloat people, marijuana will make your teen’s eyes red and hazy, whereas certain other drugs such as meth or heroin can cause skin lesions or cuts. People can also lose weight when addicted to alcohol, and weight loss is also associated with cocaine use. If you notice a sudden change in your teen’s appearance, it may be worth checking in or heading to a doctor’s appointment to make sure everything is in check. 

Changes In Their Sleeping Pattern

Teens are known to have wonky sleeping patterns. From staying up late to sleeping past noon, there are different norms for every child, so if you notice a change in your teen’s sleeping habits it may be an indication of substance abuse. Some substance withdrawals can cause insomnia, where your teen will be unable to sleep because they’ve been using the substance for so long. In instances like these, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately as withdrawal symptoms can become fatal.

Constant and Unexplainable Mood Swings

While emotions are high during your teenage years, some emotional outbursts just don’t match with the woes of puberty and high school. Take note of your teens’ emotions and moods if you feel they are suffering from substance abuse. If you notice they are arriving home in an alleviated, euphoric state and slowly deteriorate into unexplainable mood swings, there might be more to the story. 

While reprimanding their behavior, try to have a conversation with your teen to see where these feelings are stemming from. If they’re not feeding into your conversation, seek out information from their teachers and extracurricular coaches or mentors. Ask them if they’ve noticed similar changes in behavior and mood. 

Missing School Or Work

Substance abusers will give up nearly anything to catch their next high. For teens, this means school and work obligations tend to become expendable to them. Most schools are obligated to report to parents when their children do not attend, so be sure to address the situation immediately and as seriously as you can. 

See if you can get any information from the school as well, such as if there’s a substance abuse problem known or if there’s a pattern of certain students missing school together. As previously stated, teachers and coaches at school, as well as managers and coworkers at work, may be able to give insight into your teen’s mood or personality, and if they’ve noticed any changes either.