Identifying Signs of Addiction in Teens by Amanda Young, LCSW

Adolescence years are a very trying time for teenagers and their parents. Adolescents have physical and emotional changes that they go through that they aren’t able to describe or put in words. During this time, teenagers are also in a stage where they are trying to find out who they are and assert their independence. Parents with adolescents describe these years as the make-or-break years. These years are where adolescents are pushing parents away, demanding more privacy and would rather be with their friends opposed to their families. Adolescents' moods change quickly, attitude is not so great, and emotions are intense. It is common for adolescents to be confused, intense, angry or afraid.

Due to the magnitude of changes and the fluctuation of emotions adolescents experience, it might be hard to distinguish between what is a normal behavior or mood change due to adolescence opposed to abusing substances. Adolescents experiencing peer pressure, curiosity, stress, peer pressure, escaping from daily issues and just experimenting, can lead to substance abuse.

According to CDC 1 in 5 teens has abused prescription medications and 21 percent of high school seniors have reported using marijuana in the past month. Common drugs adolescents abuse include alcohol, marijuana, over the counter and prescription medication. Although it might be a difficult task to pay attention to every little thing your adolescent is doing, there are some signs that can help you identify if your adolescent is abusing drugs.

Common signs to be cautious of when it comes to adolescent drug abuse are:

  • Decline in grades

  • Bloodshot eyes

  • Laughing for no reason

  • Loss of interest in activities

  • Poor hygiene

  • Diminished personal appearance

  • Avoiding eye contact

  • Frequent hunger or “munchies”

  • Smell of smoke on breath or clothes

  • Secretive behavior

  • Unusual tiredness

  • Missing curfew

When approaching an adolescent regarding suspected drug use or abuse, it is important not to accuse but have an open dialogue about your suspicion. If drug abuse or use is confirmed, the best thing for parents to do is to manage their emotions about their adolescent abusing drugs, get the adolescent some help, and be supportive of the adolescent while going through treatment. If you need assistance, please give Niyyah Counseling PLLC a call at 817-435-2031. We will be happy to assist you and your adolescent on this journey.