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Teenage Parenting – Drug User Signs and Symptoms
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In previous articles we have addressed the Risk Factors that may contribute to your teen taking drugs and also we have addressed some of the major reasons your teen may take drugs, now it is time to address what signs you as a parent need to look for to help them determine whether your teen is drinking alcohol or using drugs.
Becoming familiar with the signs of drug use can equip you with knowledge, this knowledge can then aid you in gathering evidence and put you in a better position to start talking to your teen about drugs in general and the harmful effect drugs has on an individual.
The signs and symptoms outlined in this article to be scrutinized. You need to remember that it is normal teen behaviour to have mood swings or changes in behaviour which is part of growing up, especially as teens make the transition from childhood to adulthood. However being aware of the signs and symptoms and being able to recognize more and more of these signs and symptoms in your teen.
Behavorial issues:
Be aware of behavioural indicators as listed below they can be signs that your teen has been drinking or is using drugs. You need to exercise care and it is important not to jump to conclusions, rather noticing any of the symptoms listed below gives you the opportunity to find an opportunity to address your concerns and communicate with your teen in a caring and not condemning manner.
Ø Loud obnoxious behaviour
Ø Hostile, angry and uncooperative
Ø Deceitful or secretive
Ø Inability to focus
Ø Slurred speech
Ø Laughing at nothing
Ø Mood changes or emotional instability
Ø Loss of inhibitions
Ø Loss of interest and a general lack of motivation
Ø Exhaustion
Notice changes in personal appearance:
Ø Disrespect to hygiene
Ø Messy dirty careless appearance
Ø Burns or open sores and bruising
Ø Glassy eyes
Changes to person habits:
Ø Smell of smoke on breath or clothes
Ø Frequently breaks curfew
Ø Cash flow problems
Ø Avoiding eye contact
Ø Avoids discussing the topic of drugs or alcohol
Ø Secretive phone calls, texting
Ø Sudden or increased use of air fresheners, scented candles or incense
Some other tell tale signs:
Ø Disappearance of prescription r over the counter medication which you may have had in your medicine cabinet
Ø Disappearance of money or valuables
Ø Appearance of unusual container or wrappers, including pipes, rolling papers, or bongs
Health issues you need to keep an eye on:
Ø Excessive nosebleeds could be a sign of snorted drugs
Ø Frequent sickness
Ø Sores or spots around the mouth
Ø Vomiting
Ø Excessive mouth dryness causing excessive thirst may indicate that your teen is smoking marijuana or taking Ecstasy.
Ø Sudden dramatic weight loss or gain
Ø Depression
Ø Frequent headaches
Ø Excessive sweat
Many kids suffer from recurring cold sores, which stem from the herpes simplex virus. Although cold sores are very common, spots around your child’s mouth could also indicate that she has been smoking marijuana,
If spots around the mouth are accompanied by a chemical odor, paint stains on your teen’s body or clothing or a runny nose, your teen might be using inhalants.
School or work related issues:
Ø Truancy or loss of interest in schoolwork
Ø Drop in grades
Ø Lack of motivation
Ø Disruption in class and complaints from teachers or co workers.
It is of vital importance that if you identify any of the symptoms itemized above you ensure that you do not jump to conclusion and accuse your teen of being a drug user or alcohol drinker. Rather the list above is to be used as a guide to educate you so as you can be on the alert and the first sign of concern you can communicate openly with your teen. The mere fact that you can communicate with a little knowledge will enable your teen to identify that you are interested enough to have taken the time to find out about the consequences relating to drugs and alcohol