Signs of Drug Use in Your Teen

All teenagers experience dramatic mood shifts from time to time. But if your teenager seems unusually despondent or his behaviors are uncharacteristic, he may be experimenting with drugs. Watch for signs of a substance abuse problem.

Relationships

A change in friends may signify problems. Teenagers using drugs will gravitate to other teens doing the same thing. She may be secretive about her friends and activities.

Money

Drugs cost money. If your teen is constantly borrowing money from you, demand accountability. Don't shrug off small amounts of your cash that are missing. Your child may be stealing drug money from you.

Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms of drug abuse include insomnia or a dramatic increase in sleepiness. He may have weight loss, a chronic cough, nose bleeds, dilated pupils, red eyes and cold-like symptoms. A sudden weight loss or gain is also a significant sign.

Emotional Symptoms

Depression is common in teens abusing drugs. Irritability, extreme moodiness and unusually slow movements can all point to drug abuse.

School Problems

If your teen starts skipping school, fails to do homework and seems unworried about low grades, you should check for drug use.

Prescriptions

Check your medicine cabinet regularly. Prescription drug abuse is just as serious as addiction to street drugs.