Signs and Symptoms

Concerned your child might be experimenting with tobacco, alcohol, marijuana or other drugs? Below are some signs to look out for:

Changes in behavior

  • Missing school, declining grades or discipline problems
  • Dropping old friends and getting new ones
  • Dropping activities such as sports
  • Increased secrecy
  • Unusual borrowing of money
  • Sudden mood changes, aggressiveness, irritability
  • Restlessness, excessively talkative, rapid speech
  • Irresponsible behavior, poor judgment
  • Depression
  • Forgetfulness, slurred speech, or difficulty expressing thoughts
  • Lack of coordination, poor balance

 

More direct evidence of substance use

  • Increased use of incense, room deodorant or perfumes (to hide smoke or chemical odors)
  • Increased use of eye drops (to mask bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils)
  • New use of mouthwash or breath mints (to cover the smell of alcohol)
  • Drug paraphernalia such as pipes, rolling papers
  • Increased accumulation of inhalable products such as hairspray, nail polish, correction fluid, etc.
  • Missing alcohol or prescription drugs – such as narcotics, stimulants and mood stabilizers

 

If you're concerned your child might be using

  • Arrange for a screening by your pediatrician to assess the extent of the problem and what should be done
  • If your pediatrician is not familiar with screening instruments, please visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's website www.samhsa.gov and use their treatment locator to find help in your area, or call their 24-hour hotline 1-800-662-HELP (4357)