As a parent, you always want what’s best for your child. From the time they’re born, you’re doing everything in your power to make sure they’re happy and well taken care of. But as they get older, their path may begin to go a direction in which you don’t like and couldn’t have imagined when they were small. And while you may not like to think of it, your child could end up getting into some illicit activities that could potentially harm them and the rest of your family. So to help you be aware of whatever problems are facing your children and the atmosphere of your home, here are three potential indicators that your teen has a substance abuse problem.
Physical Signs
Depending on the type of substance your child may be experimenting with, there will likely be at least a few physical signs that may help you to know if a substance abuse problem is occurring. According to DrugFree.org, some of the physical or health-related signs that you child is abusing certain substances include frequent nosebleeds, sores on their face or around their mouth, fluctuations in weight, headaches or sweatiness. Although this isn’t a complete list of physical signs of substance use or abuse, the few physical signs mentioned are indicators that something might be up with your teen.
Emotional Signs
Not only can there be physical signs that your teen is using or abusing drugs or other substances, but there usually are also emotional signs as well. HelpGuide.org shares that emotional or mental signs that your teen may be using illicit substances include mood swings, feelings of anger or depression, unexplained euphoria, acting subdued or acting overly excited. It’s good to keep in mind, though, that the emotions of teenagers are not very even keeled to begin with, so make sure you’re not taking just one of these factors into account when questioning the use of illegal substances by your teen.
Sudden and Pronounced Change in Behavior
One of the most commonly noticed, and most distressing, indicators that your teen might have a substance abuse problem is a total and sudden change in their overall behavior. Your once bright and happy teen may quickly become someone you don’t recognize. TeenRehabCenter.org shares that your teen might suddenly start hanging out with a new group of friends, lie to you and other loved ones, or participate in other suspicious behaviors. If you notice a negative change such as those mentioned previously, you may want to plan how to talk to your teen about these potential issues.
A substance abuse problems is not something a parent wants or expects for their teens. And while it does happen, there are things you can do to catch these issues before they become too engrossing, for example, there are many programs that specialize in primary care Albuquerque way, for if the addiction is really bad. But you can also use the tips mentioned above to help you uncover if your teen has a substance abuse problem so that you can help them pull through today, and find them help.