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Adolescent Substance
Abuse
Physical Signs
 |
Smelling of alcohol or
marijuana
 |
Vomiting
 |
Sleeping during the day
 |
Impaired coordination
 |
Glassy, bloodshot eyes
 |
Disoriented
 |
Physical injuries
 |
Headaches
 |
Marked changes in weight
or appearance
 |
Respiratory problems
 |
Slurred speech
|
| | | | | | | | | |
Behavior Signs
 |
Change of friends
 |
Decline in grades
 |
Fighting
 |
Erratic, unpredictable
behavior
 |
Obscene language or
gesturing
 |
Little contact or
avoidance of family
 |
Dramatic attention
getting or seeking negative attention
 |
Defiance of rules -
constant disciplinary concerns
 |
Hypersensitive, does not
like to be touched
 |
Talks positively about
chemical use
 |
Depressed, hopeless
attitudes and statements - apathetic
 |
In appropriate affect -
non-verbal expressions
 |
Withdrawn, secluded,
loner
 |
Change of extracurricular
activities
 |
Lack of an ability to
"flow through" on a consistent basis
 |
Talks about running away
from home
 |
Overly preoccupied with
secrecy or privacy
 |
Suspected of vandalism,
stealing
 |
Memory problem
 |
Difficulty with
tardiness, absence from school
 |
Curfew violations
|
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What to Look For
 |
Butane, other canisters,
gas and household cleaners, Vicks bottles
 |
Thermos
 |
Missing money
 |
Cuts and/or bruises
 |
Cruelty to animals
 |
Cigarette burns on
forearm
 |
Preoccupation with fire
 |
Odd pipes or bowls
 |
Packages being delivered
to adolescent
 |
Rolling papers, cigar
|
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Disclaimer
This information is not
to be construed as professional advice or medical recommendations.
Readers are encouraged to direct any questions concerning personal
health care to licensed physicians or other appropriate professionals. |