Warning Signs: How Can I Tell if a Student is Using Alcohol or Drugs?
Adolescents can become addicted to alcohol in only 6-18 months; for adults this usually takes 5-15 years. Of the children who first use alcohol or other substances before the age of 15, 40 percent are later classified with an addiction. That’s why it’s critically important to know and recognize the signs of drug and alcohol use and abuse so that you can inform parents and they can seek help for their child immediately.
Physical Evidence of Drug Use:
- Liquor missing or watered down
- Fake ID
- Mouthwash, breath spray
- Visine or other eye drops
- Roach clips, rolling papers
- Bong pipes and small screens
- "Stash cans," often disguised as soda or beer cans
- Any drugs or drug paraphernalia you find on your child or in your home are indications of drug use, even if he or she insists they "belong to a friend."
Changes in School Performance:
- Discipline problems
- Lowered grades, neglected homework
- Frequent tardiness and absenteeism
- Falling asleep in class
Changes in Physical Appearance:
- Lack of personal cleanliness, messy appearance
- Red eyes and frequent use of eye drops
- Runny nose, congestion, coughing
- Wearing dark glasses when not necessary
- Significant weight loss or gain
- Pale face, circles under eyes
Changes in Behavior and Personality:
- Abrupt changes in mood
- Hostility, defiance of rules
- Depression, "I don't care" attitude
- Lack of responsibility: not doing chores or homework; forgetting family occasions
- Blaming, lying, making excuses
- Loss of memory, shortened attention span, disordered thought patterns
- Withdrawal from family, isolation, secretiveness
Changes in Friends and Interests:
- New or different friends, especially ones who use drugs
- Secrecy about actions and possessions
- Sports or extracurricular activities are given up; everything is "boring"
Positive Attitudes toward Drugs and Alcohol:
- Pro-drug messages on posters or clothing
- Strong defense of the occasional use of drugs by peers
- Thinks adults "hassle" kids
- Easily angered when confronted about chemical use
- Others are concerned over his/her use of alcohol or other drugs
