Teen substance use

Many teens try substances like alcohol or drugs. Some try them only a few times and stop. Teens who keep using substances may form a strong need for them. This can lead to substance use disorder. Substances teens may try include tobacco, alcohol, marijuana or other drugs, household products (inhalants), and prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Sometimes it's hard to tell if a teen is using alcohol or drugs. Parents may worry that their teens are involved with drugs or alcohol if they become withdrawn or negative. But these behaviors are common for teens going through challenging times. These behaviors may also be signs of a mental health condition, such as depression.

It's important not to accuse your teen unfairly. Try to find out why their behavior has changed. Tell your teen that you're concerned.

Signs of teen substance use

Experts recommend that parents look for a pattern or a number of changes in appearance, behavior, and attitude, and not just one or two of the changes listed here.

Signs that a teen may be using substances include a:

• Change in appearance. Examples include:
  • Red and glassy eyes, and frequent use of eyedrops and breath mints.
  • "Track marks" where drugs have been injected into veins.
  • Less attention paid to dressing and grooming.
  • Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss.
• Change in behavior. Examples include:
  • Decreased attendance and performance at school.
  • Loss of interest in school, sports, or other activities.
  • Repeated health complaints, such as being overly tired.
  • Newly developed secrecy, or deceptive or sneaky behavior.
  • Withdrawing from family and friends.
  • Having new friends and being reluctant to introduce them.
  • Lying or stealing.
• Change in attitude. Examples include:
  • Disrespectful behavior.
  • A mood or attitude that is getting worse.
  • Lack of concern about the future.