Teen drug abuse can suddenly impact a teen's attitude and personality.
Teen drug abuse can have symptoms that are sometimes not immediately recognizable. But knowing what to look for might be the difference between life and death for a misguided young person. While different drugs and substances have a unique impact on a teen's behavior, the most common symptom of all is a noticeable change in attitude.
Physical Appearance
Changes to a teen's physical appearance as a result of substance abuse are amongst the easiest symptoms to detect. They can include a deterioration in hygiene, personal upkeep and health, since the drug use has taken priority over personal care and grooming. Greasy or unkempt hair and fluctuations in weight should not be overlooked. Also, unnecessarily wearing long sleeved clothing and concealing accessories, such as sunglasses and hats, might be a sign that the teen has something to hide.
Character
As a teen makes a habit out of illegal drug use, he may carry over the dishonesty into other facets of his life. Lying, stealing, and the sudden abandon of responsibilities are often symptoms. Teens might quit a hobby they once loved, forget or refuse to do chores at home, borrow and steal money from people they are close to, or lie about their whereabouts for the sake of using drugs.
Behavior
While the teen's character deteriorates, behavioral changes are also a symptom of drug abuse. Sudden mood swings, frequent loss of temper, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and isolation from friends and family might be signs that a teen is suffering from an addiction. These changes can take place at home or in school and they often separate the teen from their normal course of action.
Social Changes
A minor or sizable change in a teen's social circle is a symptom of drug abuse. Teens who use drugs will associate themselves with other teens who do the same. They will then begin to distance themselves from their sober friends. When teens become reluctant to talk about former friends or start to spend time with an elusive new companion, there is the possibility that drug abuse has taken over their social lives.
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