In the busy world in which we live every day it is so important for parents of teens and even the tweens to really keep an eye out for changes in their child’s behaviour. Often simple yet easily identified changes are the first hints that you son or daughter may be using and abusing alcohol and drugs. While each different type of drug has a slightly different physical effect on the body, there are also some typical social, emotional and attitudinal changes that may signal the need for further investigation.Three of the most common indicators that your teen may be using alcohol and drugs include:
1. Changes in privacy – your teen or tween may suddenly seem a lot more particular about privacy. They don’t want you in their room, touching their stuff or even in the same room as they are when they are on the phone or on the computer with their friends.
2. Memory and concentration difficulties – your child may begin to have problems in remembering things and focusing in on tasks. This is not because of distractions in the environment but rather because of the effects of alcohol or drugs on the body and brain.
3. Sleeping problems – often the use of alcohol or drugs causes changes in sleep. Kids and teens may be sleeping a lot more or they may be having difficulty in getting to sleep. Some drugs may also cause hallucinations and nightmares that in turn lead to loss of sleep and irritability during waking hours.
Unfortunately many parents assume that these changes in behaviour are just normal phases that kids are going through. While they may be just that it is important to talk to your child about the use of alcohol or drugs and, if you still have fears, get an addiction therapist involved before the addiction causes serious problems for the teen.

Sherry Gaba

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