Teen drug and alcohol abuse is a problem with no clear solution. Parents are on the front-line in this struggle to keep their children safe from drugs and alcohol, and knowledge about the warning signs of teenage substance abuse can be their best weapon.

Behavior

Teenagers are known for distancing themselves from their parents, but parents should be mindful of extreme behavioral changes in their children. According to The National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign depression, hostility and changes in grooming could be signs of drug and/or alcohol use.

School

Parents should take notice if their teenager's grades begin to slide drastically or if he shows a lack of interest or quits any extra-curricular activities or sports.

Friends

Parents should be aware of their teenager's friends. If you notice your children's friends using coded language or slang, secretive behavior around you or other adults, and/or sharing the same behavior that reflects your teen's change in behavior, then they might be abusing drugs and alcohol.

Daily Activities

Parents should take notice if their teen begins to use incense or other odor masker, increased or new use of mouthwash or breath mints, and/or eye drops. Also be aware of any drug paraphernalia, such as pipes and rolling papers, and missing prescription drugs and products known for inhalant use, such as hairspray and nail polish.

Tips for Parents

Parents can try different deterrents in an attempt to prevent teenage drug and alcohol use such as taking a higher interest in their children's activities, setting rules with a praise and reward system and getting the facts about drug and alcohol abuse.

Source:

Laying Down the Rules: Tips for Parents

Signs & Symptoms of Teen Drinking and Drug Use