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No one is immune to illicit drugs, alcohol and young people are especially vulnerable. Know how to recognize the warning signs of drug and alcohol abuse and dependence.
Warning Signs
- Denial and more denial (I’m in control)
- Disrespect of parents and family
- Items missing from home or unaccounted for
- Finding strange items in their room (drug pipes, pop bottles with holes burned into the sides, etc.)
- Falling school grades
- Coming home late
- Sleeping late and long
- Isolating from family members
- Dropping out of sporting and other extra-curricular activities
- Always asking for money
- Unexplained new clothing and other items
- Attitude changes
Drastic Changes
Adolescents are prone to highs and lows, this is natural. However, watch for sudden changes in character or behaviour. It’s important you find out what’s at the root of the change. A dramatic change in any of these things may signal involvement with drugs or alcohol: New rebellious friends, attitude, energy level, how they dress, the music they listen to, books they read, etc.
Lack Of Interest
A lack of enthusiasm for school (dropping grades, skipping class), sports, clubs, hobbies and other positive activities may warn of a shift in priorities. These are often first indicators of drug and alcohol involvement.
Asking For Money
If they are always begging for money or are secretive about how they spend money, pay attention. This goes beyond disagreeing on how much is spent on video games or CDs — those are things you can keep track of. Talk clearly and honestly about being responsible stewards of what God provides. If money seems to disappear into a black hole, that hole might just be drugs and alcohol.
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