Symptoms of Drug Abuse

November 21, 2009

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Symptoms of Drug Abuse

by Dr. Benjamin Spock
reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P.

Adapted from Baby and Child Care

There are no obvious signs of early drug use, unless you actually see it happening. The only way to know if your child is just beginning to use drugs is through open communication.

Once drug use reaches abusive levels, certain types of behavior may tip you off. However, even these behaviors are not proof of drug abuse; they may have other causes. Either way, you should still give the following signs your attention. It's a frightening list for any parent. Just remember that these types of behavior are a serious concern no matter what the cause. You shouldn't jump to any rash conclusions, but keep alcohol and other drug abuse in mind as you try to make sense of seemingly unexplainable changes in your child.

inexplicable and frequent mood swings

apparent lying by your child about what he has been doing when out of the house

an unaccountable decline in school performance, including increased tardiness and truancy

appearing listless and hung over

repeated injuries

significant weight loss or weight gain

shortened attention span

depression

school failure or suspension

jumpiness or anxiety

deteriorating health

personality changes, such as paranoia or increased forgetfulness.

If you suspect that your child is using drugs, don't panic. But you should be concerned, and you do want to do something, because there is potential for harm. The way you approach the problem depends on the amount of drug use and the age of the child. With younger children, you will want to set firm, nonnegotiable rules about drugs. With older children, a simple prohibition is unlikely to have any positive effect. A more effective approach uses understanding and negotiation.

For more useful information check out our Tobacco, Family Relationships, and School Problems programs.

Click here to join the discussion on Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco.


RELATED INFORMATION

			Drugs and Alcohol

Created March 10, 2001
Reviewed August 15, 2004

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