Teen Drug Use: Do You Suspect Your Teen is Using Drugs?



Parenting teens in today's society is not an easy task.  Communication with your teenager is key to their success on many levels, however as a mother that raised two teenager, I know it is easier said than done.  Drug and alcohol use among teens is an issue parents need to be aware of.   There are many good kids making some very bad choices.  

A common misconception parents make is thinking that a teen that is only smoking marijuana is a phase.  Marijuana and the substitutes for it, such as spice, are more risky and dangerous than years/generations prior.  They can be laced with higher levels of PCP than can literally alter the mind of your teen as well as cause brain damage. 

Drug use (substance abuse) is a serious cry for help, and making your teen feel ashamed or embarrassed can make the problem worse. Some common behavior changes you may notice if your teenager is abusing drugs and alcohol are:
  • Violent outbursts, rage, disrespectful behavior
  • Poor or dropping grades
  • Unexplained weight loss or gain
  • Skin abrasions, track marks
  • Missing curfew, running away, truancy
  • Bloodshot eyes, distinct "skunky" odor on clothing and skin
  • Missing jewelry, money
  • New friends
  • Depression, apathy, withdrawal, disengaged from the family
  • Reckless behavior
Do you have a teen that you suspect is using drugs?  Is therapy not working?  Have you exhausted all your local resources?  Take the time to learn about residential therapy,  visit www.HelpYourTeens.com.   

Each teen and family are unique, there are many teen help programs, knowing how to locate the one best for you can be a challenge, however Parents' Universal Resource Experts can help, starting with a free consultation.

Please remember, it is not your marijuana from your college or teens days.  

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