While it is difficult to distinguish typical adolescent behavior from drug-induced behavior, you should consider possible drug use if you notice SEVERAL of these changes in your child:

 

• messy appearance, lack of personal cleanliness

 

• red eyes and frequent use of eye drops

 

• runny nose, congestion, coughing

 

• wearing dark glasses when not necessary

 

• pale face, circles under eyes

 

• difficulty falling asleep, insomnia

 

• inappropriate napping

 

• significant weight loss or gain

 

• poor appetite

 

• a sudden appetite (especially for sweets)

 

• abrupt changes in mood

 

• hostility, defiance of rules

 

• depression, "I don’t care" attitude

 

• lack of responsibility: not doing chores, homework; forgetting family occasions

 

• blaming, lying, making excuses

 

• loss of memory, shortened attention span, disordered thought patterns

 

• withdrawal from family, isolation, secretiveness

 

• lowered grades, neglected homework

 

• frequent tardiness and absenteeism

 

• falling asleep in class

 

• discipline problems

 

• quitting or getting fired from job

 

• Smell of smoke or alcohol

 

• liquor missing or watered down

 

• fake ID

 

• mouth wash, breath sprays

 

• Visine or other eye drops

 

• roach clips, rolling papers

 

• bongs, pipes and small screens

 

• baggies containing dried leaves, seeds

 

• "stash cans", often disguised as cola or beer cans

 

• burning incense, room deodorizers

 

• prescription medication disappearing

 

• unexplained possession of large sums of money

 

• money or other valuables disappear from family members

Any drugs or drug paraphernalia you find on your child or in your home are indications of drug use, even if he or she insists they "belong to a friend."

 

• new or different friends, especially ones who use drugs

 

• friends rarely introduced and seldom come to the house

 

• more time spent in room or away from home

 

• secrecy about actions and possessions

 

• hobbies, sports or extra-curricular activities are given up; everything is "boring"

 

• stays out past curfew

 

• pro-drug messages on posters, clothing, notebooks or body

 

• strong defense of the occasional use of drugs by peers, thinks adults "hassle" kids

 

• easily angered when confronted about chemical use

 

• concern expressed by others over his/her use of alcohol or other drugs

Seek Professional Help Immediately If Your Child:

 

• Steals

 

• Runs Away From Home

 

• Show s Violent Behavior

 

• Threatens or Attempts Suicide