About 4% of higher schoolers have used cocaine. Another 2% have tried heroin, methamphetamine, or steroids without a prescription. Meanwhile, 7% have used hallucinogens.
Marijuana is the most common illegal street drug teens abuse today.
Unfortunately, it’s easier than ever for teenagers to hide their drug use.
5 Teen Drug Abuse Signs All Parents Should Look Out For
Do you think your child is using drugs? Keep reading to discover the five common signs of teen drug abuse. With these tips, you can take action before their addiction has lasting consequences.
Read on to discover the signs of drug abuse among teens today.
1. Changes in Their Appearance
One of the most obvious signs of drug abuse among teens is a change in your child’s appearance.
For example, you might notice:
- That they constantly lick their lips
- Shaking or tremors
- Bloodshot eyes
- Unexplained bruises, track marks, or wounds
- Flushed cheeks
- Soot on their fingers or lips
- Nosebleeds or a running nose
Your child might wear long sleeves during the summer months to hide their track marks or bruises. They could start to neglect their hygiene, too.
2. A Change in Habits
Your child might abandon their normal habits as well. For example, they might avoid their friends or abandon hobbies.
You might notice your child has developed new cravings or has an increased appetite. In some cases, they can develop a lack of appetite.
Some children skip school or start misbehaving in class. You might notice a change in your child’s grades, too.
These habitual changes could indicate drug abuse.
3. Secretive Behavior
About one in every 10 Americans over the age of 12 is addicted to alcohol or drugs. That’s 23.5 million Americans. Unfortunately, only 11% receive treatment.
Knowing how to spot the signs of teen drug abuse will ensure your child receives the help they need.
For example, your child might become secretive. An extrovert might get quiet, while an introvert might get more withdrawn.
They might start stealing, avoiding eye contact, or locking their bedroom door. Some children sneak out at night as well.
4. Changes at Home
Sometimes, the changes your child experiences are more subtle. Pay attention to changes you notice around their environment, including:
- Wrappers or containers you don’t recognize
- Dents in the car your child can’t explain
- Missing alcohol, prescription medications, or over-the-counter drugs
- Drug paraphernalia (eye drops, butane lighters, smoking devices, syringes)
If you notice these changes around your home, you might want to speak with your child. You can ensure they get the help they need. Consider teen addiction recovery as a start.
5. A New Social Group
Your child might abandon their friends for a new social group. In some cases, bad influences can lead your child to start abusing drugs. If they’ve started hanging out with new friends, try to learn more about their social group.
Make a Change: 5 Telling Signs of Teen Drug Abuse
Keep an eye out for these five signs of teen drug abuse. If these signs sound familiar, consider seeking help for your child. Without help, their health will only deteriorate. Physiological dependence could take over as well.