Principles of Adolescent Substance Use Disorder Treatment: A Research-Based Guide

If an adolescent starts behaving differently for no apparent reason—such as acting withdrawn, frequently tired or depressed, or hostile—it could be a sign he or she is developing a drug-related problem. Parents and others may overlook such signs, believing them to be a normal part of puberty.

Other signs include:

• a change in peer group
• carelessness with grooming
• decline in academic performance
• missing classes or skipping school
• loss of interest in favorite activities
• changes in eating or sleeping habits
• deteriorating relationships with family members and friends

Parents tend to underestimate the risks or seriousness of drug use. The symptoms listed here suggest a problem that may already have become serious and should be evaluated to determine the underlying cause—which could be a substance abuse problem or another mental health or medical disorder. Parents who are unsure whether their child is abusing drugs can enlist the help of a primary care physician, school guidance counselor, or drug abuse treatment provider.

Parents seeking treatment for an adolescent child are encouraged to see NIDA's booklet, Seeking Drug Abuse Treatment: Know What to Ask and see the Treatment Referral Resources section of this guide.