Warning Signs of Substance Abuse

Here are a few warning signs that someone may have a substance abuse problem:

• Relying on drugs or alcohol to have fun, forget problems, or relax
• Having blackouts
• Drinking or using drugs while alone
• Withdrawing or keeping secrets from friends or family
• Losing interest in activities that used to be important
• Performing differently in school (such as grades dropping and frequent absences)
• Building an increased tolerance to alcohol or drugs — gradually needing more and More of the substance to get the same feeling
• Lying, stealing, or selling stuff to get money for drugs or alcohol

http://teenshealth.org/teen/drug_alcohol/drugs/drinking_drug_problem.html

Want to hear more from other youth who know what you’re going through? Check out our blog posts on Substance Abuse.