Substance Addiction in Teenagers

Teenagers often view experimenting with drugs and alcohol as a milestone of growing up. However, they are typically unaware of the dangers that come with substance abuse. No matter how it begins or what drugs they use, substance addiction in teens is a prevalent issue that can have cognitive and behavioural effects for years to come. Substance addiction is a serious issue that can bring forth many risks and concerns and, therefore, must be treated as such. If you suspect your child is struggling with substance addiction, here are the signs of being aware of and steps to take to help them through it.


Signs of Substance Addiction

Many teenagers go through unpredictable mood changes, however, it is important to know the signs of drug addiction in teens and to be able to differentiate between teenage angst and substance addiction. Some common signs include the following:

  • Bloodshot eyes

  • Avoiding eye contact

  • Secretive behavior

  • Poor hygiene

  • Lack of interest in activities

  • Intense mood swings

  • Missing money

  • Hanging out with a different crowd

  • Friends and romantic partners who use substances

  • Finishing prescriptions prematurely

  • Withdrawing from friends and family

  • Poor academic behavior

  • Unusually frequent hunger

  • Overtiredness or fatigue

  • The scent of smoke on clothes or breath

Interfering

While you may notice these signs and symptoms in your child, it is necessary to initiate a conversation with them and raise your suspicions and concerns. Studies show that one in five parents who suspect substance addiction in their children do not do anything to interfere and prevent it. It is so important to have difficult conversations in order to maintain your child’s well-being and address the problem before it manifests further complications.

The easiest way to interfere with a substance addiction is simply by asking straightforward questions to initiate the conversation. Straightforward questions such as “Have you been using drugs or alcohol?” are an easy way to get the conversation going.

If your teenager admits to using drugs, it is important to remember to respond in a calm and collected manner. Lashing out can cause your teenager to shut down and might prevent them from opening up about it in the future. It is important that your child feels comfortable talking about their struggles and their experience so that you can best support them. Studies show that teenagers who feel supported and loved are more likely to seek help for their substance addiction.

If your teenager denies substance use and you suspect that they are lying, try to reassure them that you only want to help and want them to feel safe opening up to you. It is natural that your child might initially deny any substance addiction. However, you should follow up by expressing your concern for their well-being. If they continue to deny the use and you still suspect that they are lying, you can have them take an at-home drug test or take them to a professional who may be able to diagnose a drug problem.

Next Steps

You have uncovered a substance addiction problem with your teenager - what now? Research shows that one in three parents believe there isn’t anything they can do to prevent their teenager from abusing drugs. However, the evidence actually shows that parental interference is the strongest way to prevent substance use. After initiating a conversation and discussing the problem, it is important to seek professional help in addiction treatment for teens. A professional can help them not only quit their substance use but also talk through underlying issues and allow them to seek emotional support.

Substance addiction is a very serious problem that should not be handled alone without a professional. The Veda Group is equipped with experts who offer services that can improve your child’s mental health and well-being and can also serve them in crisis situations. If you believe your child has substance addiction issues and want to seek help, there are no better specialists than at The Veda Group. With a 100% client satisfaction rate, we are able to navigate even the most challenging crisis situations at a moment’s notice and manage the problem with precision, speed, and trust. For more information or to book a free consultation, please visit www.thevedagroup.com.