Teens who abuse drugs at an early age are at a higher risk of becoming drug addicts later in life. Some teens who experiment with drugs may not develop an addiction at an early age, but drug abuse can cause many psychological and physical health problems. Teenagers who use drugs are at a high risk of dropping out of school, engaging in physical violence, and crime. Drug abuse is also an avenue for gang recruitment, especially in crime-prone neighborhoods. If you are worried that your teenage son or daughter is abusing drugs, you should seek substance abuse treatment options. This article explores some of the signs of substance abuse among teenagers. 

Change of Physical Appearance

You cannot ignore the slightest hints of substance abuse in a teenager. Some clear signs include bloodshot eyes, flushed cheeks, soot on lips and fingers, tremors, running nose or nosebleeds without a cold, or an unusual smell. However, teenagers are crafty and employ various tactics to hide their substance abuse habits. For example, the teenager might conceal needle wounds by wearing long-sleeved outfits even in the warm weather. Similarly, excessive deodorant might hide the smell of weed. It would help if you remain vigilant to such physical changes and closely examine the teenager's appearance. For example, ensure you enquire about bruises, wounds, and careless personal hygiene. These physical signs indicate that your loved one requires substance abuse treatment. 

Secretive Habits

If your loved one suddenly becomes secretive and introverted, they might be doing drugs. An extrovert does not suddenly become secretive and introverted except when there are other changes in their lives. Substance abuse causes various misconducts, such as avoiding classes, work, and extracurricular activities. The teenager may also start stealing things, sneaking out at night, and locking themselves in their room. Drugs also cause social withdrawal that makes the teenager shy, especially when confronted. The teenager may also lose interest in family activities, and therefore, you should follow up to establish if they are using drugs. Even though most of these habits may be normal for a developing teenager, you should investigate further and seek treatment. 

School Problems

School is one of the most demanding places in a teenager's lifestyle. The slightest distraction can derail academic progress. Drug abuse causes a decline in grades, truancy, defiance of school authority, loss of focus, and reduced attention span. Therefore, you should not ignore the declining grades, violence at school, or cases of sleeping in class. If the problems persist, perhaps you need to seek substance abuse treatment for your loved one. 

Depression

Depression is a common sign of substance abuse. However, teenagers can develop depression due to other changes in their lives and use drugs to feel better. Drugs such as alcohol and prescription medications such as beta-blockers, corticosteroids, Parkinson's drugs, and other medications that affect hormones may increase one's depression. Even though your loved one may have only experimented with these drugs, the depressive effects persist, and you can notice their depressed state. Therefore, any signs of depression such as a change in energy levels, awkward sleep patterns, loss of self-esteem, or loss of concentration should help you decide if your loved one needs substance abuse treatment. 

If your teenager changes their physical appearance, social habits, academic performance, or mental health status, you should consider seeking teen substance abuse treatment.