Teen drug use continues to be a growing social issue, but many parents have no idea how widespread teen substance use is. Drug use is a slippery slope. Once a teen boy tries drugs, they can quickly develop a substance use disorder that requires professional drug abuse treatment. However, when you know the signs of teen drug use, you can intervene and get your teen age son the teen rehab help he needs before things spiral out of control.
If your teenage son is using drugs, it’s essential to act quickly. Call 828.519.5047 for more information on the substance use treatment program for teenage boys at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery®.
Why Do Teens Start Using Drugs?
Every parent dealing with teenage drug use asks the same question: Why do teens start using drugs? Here are some common reasons:
- Peer pressure plays a big role. If a teen’s friends are experimenting with drugs, they are more likely to join in to fit in or seem cool.
- Teens are also exposed to music, TV, movies, and social media that often glorify drug use, making it seem normal or appealing.
- Mental health issues also contribute. Teens may turn to drugs to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or other challenges.
With this in mind, it’s time to pay closer attention to your teenage son’s behavior for clues about possible drug use.
Common Signs of Teen Drug Use
The teenage years come with unique challenges for teens and parents alike. Changing hormones and an increased desire for independence lead to occasional tensions in every family. Parents often wonder which behaviors are normal and which are cause for concern. Below are some common signs of teen drug use that every parent should know to watch for.
Physical Changes
The physical signs of teen drug use are often the first thing that makes a parent wonder if their teen is using drugs. Some physical changes to watch for that may indicate drug use include:
- Bloodshot eyes
- Pupils larger or smaller than normal
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- Hyperactivity
- Slow, labored breathing
- Slurred speech
Physical signs can depend on the type of drugs the teen used, which is why they can vary widely.
Behavioral Changes
Drug use also inevitably brings about behavioral changes, especially when a teen has been using drugs for a while. Common behavioral changes to watch for include:
- New friend groups
- Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
- Academic issues such as poor attendance and failing grades
- Changes to sleeping and eating patterns
- Emotional changes
- Rule-breaking behavior
- Secretive behavior
It can be hard to distinguish some of these signs from normal teen behavior. However, if your teen is showing several of the above signs, especially in conjunction with the physical symptoms, drug use may be occurring.
Other Warning Signs
Parents should also be aware of other telltale signs of teen drug use. Additional warning signs you can watch for include:
- Drug paraphernalia such as pipes, syringes, bent spoons, or empty pill bottles
- Foil or plastic with burn marks or residue
- Requests for money
- Missing cash
- Missing prescription medications
These signs can all indicate that your teen is using drugs.
Why Teens Deny That They Are Abusing Drugs
In spite of the signs your teen is using drugs, there are numerous reasons why teens deny they are using drugs, including:
Rationalization
Many teens believe that they do not have a drug problem. They may try to rationalize their behavior by saying things like, “I only use every once in a while”, or “it’s been a while since my last hit.”
Avoiding a Discussion
If you try to bring up the problem, your child may dismiss it or tell you that you are overreacting. They may turn the issue back on you and point out your problems.
Assigning Blame
One of the most common signs of drug abuse is the teenager blaming someone else for their problem. They may try to blame a parent, friend, work, or other circumstances in their life.
Hiding the Drugs
A teenager may try to conceal the drugs in the home, at work, or even at events. They may resort to using drugs in private or lying about their paraphernalia. Or, a teen may try to use excuses to explain their behavior.
Other common tactics include making comparisons, agreeing to a false contract or getting defensive when you confront them. These are common signs of drug use that should raise a red flag.
If You Suspect Your Teen of Using Drugs, Take Action
If you believe that your teen is using drugs, it’s essential to talk to a reputable drug addiction treatment center like Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® about your options. You may be able to enroll them in a teen addiction outpatient or inpatient program so they get the mental health support and physical support they need.
Since hard drugs are more addictive and dangerous, it’s vital that you look into detox programs, too. Medical detox is the most appropriate way to detox from hard drugs safely. In this treatment, your teen gets back on track quickly with the medical support they need to avoid a dangerous relapse or overdose.
Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® Can Help Teenage Boys Recover
Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® offers substance use disorder treatment that can meet adolescent boys’ unique needs. With the proper intervention, it’s possible to help your teen get off drugs and back on track to a promising future. Call us today at 828.519.5047 or use our online contact form for more information on the teen substance use treatment programs at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery®.
