Signs of Drug Use or Abuse & Suicidal Tendencies in Students
Unusual behavior is not uncommon in teenagers. A typically quiet student may have an emotional outburst one day and retreat into silence the next. While knowing a student's normal behavior can alert you to changes that may indicate drug use, abuse or suicidal thoughts, several obvious warning signs can help you spot trouble in the demeanor and activities of a student you are less familiar with.
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Physical Evidence
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Physical evidence can be indicative of drug use or suicidal thoughts. Finding paraphernalia such as pipes, rolling papers, needles or shortened straws can mean a student is using drugs. Discovering the student with the drug is a stronger indicator that he is using. Other materials that can indicate drug use include inhalants, such as nail polish -- especially for students who don't normally wear polish -- mouthwash, room spray and eye drops.
Discovering weapons, pills or suicide notes can indicate a student is contemplating suicide or other violent behaviors. Students who write or post online updates about death may be at increased risk.
Behaviors
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Students engaging in drug use often exhibit unusual behavior. Their moods may swing from euphoria to depression or lethargy, sometimes during the same class period. They may start to hang out with a different crowd or shun their old friends. They may have loud outbursts or refuse to talk. They may laugh inappropriately or cry unexpectedly. They may begin to dress differently, sometimes wearing clothes that highlight drug use.
As drug use progresses to drug abuse or addiction, class attendance may fall off and grades often suffer. A student may ask to leave the classroom more frequently, especially after receiving a text message. She may refuse to groom herself and become increasingly belligerent and hostile if she can't get her fix. She may become more secretive or start talking in code.
Students with suicidal tendencies may become increasingly depressed and withdrawn. Some may neglect to complete or turn in assignments and may begin to give away belongings. Talking or joking about committing suicide or discussing specific methods is a red flag that should never be ignored or dismissed.
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Responsibilities
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Students often neglect their responsibilities when engaging in drug use or considering suicide. In addition to schoolwork, chores, jobs and other commitments suffer when a student becomes more dependent on drugs or is thinking about ending his life. He may appear to not care anymore and engage in risky and illegal behaviors, such as speeding, shoplifting or vandalism.
Warning
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Student who engage in drug use or are considering suicide need immediate help. Professional counselors, law enforcement officials and doctors can intervene and save a student's life. Always report suspicious behavior to a qualified professional.
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References
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