Keep in mind that substance abuse disorders in teens are often a secondary issue to a primary problem. Primary issues may stem from trauma experienced at home, school, or in a teen’s social life. Mental disorders are also a primary cause of substance abuse among adolescents. As such, treating these primary issues is paramount to ensuring your teen makes a complete, lasting recovery.
At Prosper Treatment Center, we have an excellent team of addiction counselors, therapists, psychiatrists, nurses, and support staff. They deliver an effective rehab for teens that replaces desires and addiction with confidence and healing. So, don’t wait for a tragedy to occur, which may be too late.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of substance abuse in teens is the first step toward getting your troubled teen help. Many of the signs of drug or alcohol misuse are easy to overlook or dismiss because the signs are often a normal part of adolescent behavior.
Another hindrance in recognizing substance abuse in teens is that the symptoms may be attributed to other causes. These can include hormonal changes, difficulty adjusting to a life change, or having a known or suspected mental disorder.
Signs of substance abuse in teens include:
- Bloodshot, drifting, and non-focused eyes
- Red or runny nose without sickness
- Sudden, unexplained weight loss
- Chronic coughing
- Poor hygiene
- Loss of interest in daily activities
- Stealing or a sudden need for money
- Wearing conspicuous clothing to cover needle marks
- Avoidance of eye contact and conversation
- Emotional instability
At Prosper Treatment Center, our team of clinically trained professionals have worked with many teens and their families struggling with substance and addiction disorders. We work closely with our clients in a supportive setting to help them to develop healthy, long-term strategies. We have seen firsthand how the right approach can bring families back together.
Adolescents can misuse any of the same substances as adults. Teen substance abuse often begins as experimentation, trying to fit in with peers, or in an attempt to feel more like an adult. Substance abuse or addiction may result for several reasons.
Some drugs, such as meth and heroin, are incredibly addictive and hook users upon first use.
Another cause of teen substance abuse is they find a seemingly effective way to self-medicate, whether for a mental health condition or emotional problems. Over time, users may develop a physical and psychological dependence on the substance.
A familial history of substance abuse may also play a role. This can result from genetic predisposition or a learned behavior when one or both parents have exhibited substance abuse.
Some of the substance problems teens may experience include:
- Alcohol abuse
- Marijuana abuse
- Cocaine abuse
- Meth addiction
- Heroine addiction
- Hallucinogen abuse, such as ecstasy
Prescription and over-the-counter medications commonly abused include:
- Stimulants, including Adderall
- Prescription pain killers, such as Oxycontin, Vicodin, Percocet, and fentanyl
- Sedatives, particularly benzodiazepines, which include Xanax, Ativan, and Valium
If you suspect your teen may have a substance abuse problem, Prosper Treatment Center can help. Our trained professionals provide comprehensive, compassionate treatment custom-tailored to your teen’s substance abuse and any underlying factors that may be contributing to the problem. We can help get your teen on the road to recovery and moving toward a brighter future that waits ahead.
