Teenage substance use is on the rise, and therefore prevention, as well as early identification, is essential. The ability to understand early sign of substance abuse can go a long way in helping in preventing the substance abuse. Below is a checklist every parent should consider in order to notice the signs and prevent them from escalating.
1. Drastic Changes in Behavior
Teenagers are always moody, but when there are dramatic alterations in behavior, there could be substance abuse. This includes; Being easily angered, avoiding any activities involving family members, or a lack of interest in a previously enjoyed activity or responsibility.
2. Declining Academic Performance
Reduced performance in school or poor attendance or truancy may actually be an indication that something else is wrong. Depending on substances, the teenager gives up on focusing and the child might end up not wanting to go to school anymore. If children fail to provide good reasons more frequently than we would like, then if they fail to complete homework, or some tasks are missing, it is time to worry.
3. Physical Appearance and Hygiene Neglect
Substance abusing teenagers may lack luster in their hair, or other untidy looks, therefore having a poor hygiene standard. Disoriented physical signs such as red eyes, swollen lips, skin rashes, sudden bleeding, excessive sneezing, and many more should alert one that the person in front of him or her is under the influence of substance.
4. Secrecy and Isolation
If your teen is more secretive all of the sudden, he/she is less communicative or sends more time alone; it may be a sign of substance abuse. Look for an attempt to avoid questions about whereabouts or the sudden appearance of new, unknown friends.
5. Unexplained Expenses or Missing Money
Consequently, substance abuse is always known to have financial consequences. If you find yourself short-changed, or if your teen seems to frequently request money without a proper cause, it is probably time to take a closer look. Possessions that make references to objects or equipment that they were never exposed to, could also help.
6. Changes in Sleep Patterns and Appetite
Substance use can disrupt normal sleep cycles, leading to insomnia or excessive sleeping. Similarly, unusual eating habits—either a sudden increase or decrease in appetite—can indicate the influence of substances on their body.
7. Increased Risky Behavior
It is considered that teenagers taking drugs or alcohol are to participate in risky-known behaviors including; reckless and unlawful driving, disregarding laws, signs, and signals or participating in trial-and-error activities involving substances. If your teen is acting out of character like being more defiant and reckless then this may be a sign of a problem.
How Parents Can Respond
If you observe these signs, approach the situation calmly and without judgment. Open communication is vital—create a safe space for your teenager to express their feelings and struggles. Educating yourself about the substances and their effects can help you guide them effectively.
Karim Ghelani’s book, Enlightenment through Transmuting Anxiety, it offers important information to parents with such difficulties. Based on the author’s personal journey into the realm of addiction the book provides specification on being mindful, techniques of breathing and ways to support family members. You need to understand that substance dependency problems are often linked with other psychological disorders like anxiety or low self-esteem, and presents useful suggestions on how to heal these problems for good.