Signs your teenager could be using drugs

Teenagers are easily pressured and may be tempted to use drugs and alcohol, especially if their friends or peers are experimenting with illegal substances. While teens may try hiding that they are using drugs, there are few warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. The earlier you detect the problem, the sooner you can help your teen deal with a drug issue. While the signs mentioned below don’t necessarily mean your child is definitely taking drugs, they can be red flags.

Sign #1: Increased absence and lateness during school hours

If your teen’s teacher contacts you concerning absentness or lateness, you will need to take action on this immediately. Frequently missing school or being late for class could be a sign of drug use.

Sign #2: A drop in grades may also indicate drug use

If your teen’s school marks suddenly drop, you should investigate the source of the problem because drugs could be a contributing factor.

Sign #3: Behaviour problems in and outside school may also signal drug problems exist

If your teen suddenly picks fights with people around them or prefers to be alone all the time, then you should worry about these behavioural issues. When you notice changes, address them immediately to get to the root of the cause.

Sign #4: Loss of interest in once enjoyed activities

If your teen suddenly loses interest in the hobbies that they were once passionate about, you should worry about what other activity has caught your teen’s attention. This often happens over a short period of time and usually indicates something is wrong.

Sign #5: Dropping old friends in favour of new ones

You need to keep an eye on the company your teen keeps. If they suddenly have new friends, check what influence they have on your child. If your gut tells you that something is wrong about your child’s new friends, then chances are something is wrong.

Sign #6: A change in personality

Drugs could be a reason why a once confident and outgoing teen has become withdrawn.

Sign #7: Mood changes

If your teen is happy one moment and depressed the next, drugs could be behind their sudden mood changes.

Sign #8: Appearing “hungover”

If your child appears hungover, it could indicate drug use. 

Sign #9: Increased forgetfulness or temporary memory loss

If your child forgets important dates or events and information more frequently than before in a manner that is absent-minded, this may signify a drug problem exists.

Sign #10: Increased secretiveness

Secretiveness is one of the main signs of drug use because teens who are using definitely have something to hide.