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JOIN FREE GROUP Teen Drug and Alcohol Abuse – 5 Signs
Teen drug and alcohol abuse is a dangerous arena, whether you admit it or not. Stories of teens abusing drugs and alcohol are common. Perhaps you’ve even thought, “My child wouldn’t do that!” You might even feel that dabbling with drugs and alcohol as a teen is “normal” behaviour that is simply unavoidable. After all, you survived, right?
It’s important to stay involved in your teen’s life so you can easily spot changes in behaviour or attitude. While some signs of teen drug use can be obvious to parents, many parents are taken by surprise.[Updated April 15, 2016]: We published an infographic talking about the drugs in Canada. Take a look.Summer 2016 is fast approaching, along with all the music festivals and recreational activities teens like to participate in. It pays to know what signs to look for.
5 Early Signs of Teen Drug and Alcohol Abuse
- Sudden change of friends or social groups
- Declining interest in school or extracurricular activities
- Bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils
- Noticeable weight loss or gain
- Change in attitude, mood or personality
- Secretive behaviour (growing trend in 2016)
- Missing items (money, valuables) from home (growing trend in 2016)
Types of Drugs and Effects on Teens
- Marijuana: Red, irritated eyes. Giggling or inappropriate/uncontrollable laughter. Sleepiness and lack of motivation or interest. Weight gain or loss.
- Stimulants (cocaine, crystal meth, amphetamines): Periods of high energy and euphoria followed by a “crash” with excessive sleeping, drastic mood change and loss of appetite. Dry mouth and nose.
- Depressants (GHB, Xanax, Valium): Slurred speech and clumsy behaviour as if drunk. Contracted pupils. Sleepiness, lack of motivation and difficulty concentrating.
- Inhalants (glue, aerosol): Headache, nausea, runny nose, rash around nose and mouth. Drunk-like behaviour, impaired vision and coordination. Irritability and anxiety.
- Hallucinogens (MDMA, LSD, PCP): Large pupils. Paranoia or bizarre behaviour. Fixation on an object or person with disregard to reality. Irrational speech or confusion.
- Heroin: Changes in sleep patterns. Needle marks on arms. Excessive sweating, sleeping, coughing, vomiting or twitching. Loss of appetite.