Teen Drug Abuse Warning Signs www.ZeroAttempts.org 70% of adolescents who tried an illicit drug before 13 developed a clinical addiction within the next 7 years. Do you really know your kids? Easier to spot than you thought If a friend or relative is experiencing a few of these warning signs - consult a physician or therapist immediately. If there is an emergency - contact 911. Personality Becomes disrespectful? Is verbally and physically abusive Is angry a lot, acts paranoid or confused, or suffers from extreme mood swings Seems depressed and less out-going than usual Is secretive and lies about what he is doing and where he is going Is stealing or "losing" possessions he used to value Seems to have a lot of money, or is always asking for money Withdraws from the family and family activities Physical appearance Not taking care of hygiene and grooming Not sleeping or sleeping too muchLoss of appetite Weight loss or weight gain Too hyperactive or too little energy Social Activity/School performance Drops old friends and activities Is skipping school Loses interest in school work and is getting low grades Is sleeping in class Loses concentration and is having trouble remembering things Source: www.teensuicide.us/articles7.html Pay attention to these suicide warning signs: Suicide threats, direct and indirect A teen's obsession with death Poems, essays and drawings that refer to death Dramatic change in personality or appearance Irrational, bizarre behavior Overwhelming sense of guilt, shame or reflection Changed eating or sleeping patterns Severe drop in school performance Giving away belongings Source: www.teensuicide.us/articles2.html   ©2017-2023, www.ZeroAttempts.org/teen-drug-abuse-warning-signs.html or https://bit.ly/3PnDHRm 070122