Tips for Parents & Other Caregivers

It’s not surprising that many teens experiment with alcohol or drugs and even engage in recreational use, and many parents believe that adolescent substance use is just an expected part of growing up. But teens today face new challenges when it comes to substance use and addiction.

About two-thirds of high school students have used alcohol or drugs, and many will endure serious short-range and lasting consequences. One in every 25 kids age 12 to 17 has a substance use disorder, and this number spikes to more than one in every seven young people age 18 to 25 years.

It’s important to know the signs of adolescent substance use and related problems and to talk with your child about alcohol and drugs. This will help them understand the risks and when it’s necessary to seek professional help.

Some parents and other caregivers think having an alcohol, marijuana, or other drug-related problem means a teen needs to fit a stereotype. This simply isn’t true. Alcohol or other drugs become a problem when teens suffer negative consequences but continue to use. Oftentimes this leaves parents and other caregivers feeling overwhelmed and unsure what to do.

Changes in mood and behavior are the most common signs your child may be struggling with alcohol or drugs. These include:

- declining school performance (i.e., poor grades, missing school, getting in trouble)

- being more uncooperative than usual (i.e., ignoring curfew or other rules)

- losing interest in favorite activities

- avoiding eye contact or having bloodshot eyes (not from allergies)

- having more difficulty getting motivated

- being more agitated, argumentative or secretive

- withdrawing from friends or family

- paying less attention to hygiene or personal appearance

- changing groups of friends

When it’s more than a substance problem

As many as eight in 10 teens who misuse alcohol or drugs also struggle with a mental health condition, what’s known as co-occurring disorders. Some of the most common mental health conditions are depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Unfortunately, fewer than 10 percent of teens with co-occurring disorders get the treatment they need, and their symptoms often worsen.

If you suspect your child may be abusing alcohol or other drugs, talk with your child’s physician. If treatment is needed, find a service provider and approach that works best for your child and family.