Have you noticed changes in your teenager’s behavior? If you suspect drug use, early intervention is important. Knowing how to tell if your kid is high is the first step.
If you need help guiding your child toward the support they need, Drew Horowitz & Associates can assist. Contact us at (800) 731-0854.
Signs Your Teenager Might Be Using Drugs
Teenagers naturally go through mood swings and behavioral changes, but certain signs can indicate substance use. Keep an eye out for these red flags of teen drug use:
Physical Changes
Physical indicators of drug use in teenagers can include bloodshot or glazed eyes, dilated or constricted pupils, and unusual body odors like smoke or alcohol. Sudden weight changes, either loss or gain, alongside behavioral shifts are also concerning. Slurred speech or uncoordinated movements can further indicate potential drug use.
Behavioral and Emotional Changes
Substance use can significantly alter a teenager’s behavior. Watch for signs like mood swings, irritability, and unexplained anger. They may become secretive, withdraw from family, and show declining school performance. Changes in friendships, a need for unexplained money, or stealing are also red flags. Loss of motivation and excessive lethargy can indicate that substances are affecting their daily life.
Paraphernalia or Unusual Items
Finding drug-related paraphernalia in your child’s belongings, such as rolling papers, pipes, or empty pill bottles, is a warning sign of potential substance use. Check for small plastic bags with unknown substances. Frequent use of eye drops to reduce redness may also be concerning. Additionally, an overuse of air fresheners, incense, or scented candles could indicate an attempt to mask odors related to drug use.
What to Do If Your Kid Is Using Drugs
If you suspect drug use, approach the situation with care. Reacting with anger or punishment may push your child away rather than encourage them to open up. Instead, take these steps.
1. Have a Calm and Open Conversation
Choose a quiet, private moment to talk. Express your concerns without accusations. Use “I” statements to avoid putting them on the defensive, such as, “I’ve noticed you’ve been acting differently, and I’m worried about you.”
2. Gather Information
Before making assumptions, try to determine the extent of their substance use. Are they experimenting, or is this a regular habit? Understanding the severity will help you decide on the next steps.
3. Set Clear Boundaries
Establish rules around substance use and enforce them consistently. Let your child know that drug use is not acceptable and that there will be consequences, but also reinforce that your primary goal is to help them.
4. Seek Professional Intervention
If your teenager denies their drug use or becomes defensive, a professional intervention may help. At Drew Horowitz & Associates, our certified interventionists use compassionate, evidence-based strategies to guide families and encourage your child to accept the support they need.
The Importance of Professional Treatment
Teen substance use often indicates deeper issues like mental health struggles, trauma, or peer pressure. Professional treatment can tackle these underlying causes and equip your child for long-term recovery. Your child may benefit from:
- Counseling or therapy to explore emotional triggers
- Outpatient or inpatient treatment programs for more intensive support
- Sober coaching and case management to provide ongoing guidance
- Family therapy to rebuild trust and improve communication
Take Action Today
If you’re concerned about your teenager’s drug use, Drew Horowitz & Associates can help. Contact us online or via phone at (800) 731-0854. You’re not alone — help is available for a healthier future.
