How to Identify Teenage Drug Use

Teen drug use is a big problem in the United States. Over 40 percent of teens age 12 and older say that they have tried an illegal substance at least once. As a parent, it is your job to educate your children on the dangers of drug use. If you do suspect drug use, here is some helpful information that can help you be sure.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Be involved and be aware. Know where your child is and who he is with at all times. Talk to him and ask him about his friends. If you develop a good relationship with your teen, chances are he will tell you what is going on in his life and if he has tried or been introduced to drugs.
2. Look for mood swings and unpredictable behavior. Although this can be common with teens, look for any extreme changes such as depression or hostile and combative behaviors. A teen with a drug problem may become withdrawn and careless and less sociable with family members.
3. Check physical appearance and overall health. Drug abuse affects how people feel and look. Look at your teen's eyes and check whether they are bloodshot or if her pupils are dilated or extremely small. Smell for odor on her breath and for any changes in her speech. She may either be hyperactive or sluggish and sleeping more. She might become ill more often and may have a persistent cough.
4. Talk to his teachers. Check for poor school performance and increased absences. Also ask if he has changed groups of friends or been seen with a known troublemaker at school.
5. Lying and stealing are other strong signs of drug use. Your teen may ask for more money but be secretive about what she is doing with it. She also may lie about who she is with and where she is going.

Tips & Warnings

• Act now. If you suspect drug use, start asking questions right away before it's too late.
• Be sure to let them know that you love them and that you are there to talk to and provide help.
• Early intervention can reduce the likelihood that drug use will continue among teens.
• Get outside help. Often, teens are not ready to talk with their parents and a counselor can help open the lines of communication.