Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Warning Signs of Teen Drug or Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol or drug dependency may include blackouts, withdrawal symptoms, and further problems in functioning at home, school, or work.
Behavior Signs:
A drop in school performance
A change in groups of friends
Delinquent behavior
Deterioration in family relationships
Physical Signs:
Red eyes
A persistent cough
Change in eating
Change in sleeping habits.
Reminders for Students
Be aware of the risks.
Drinking or using drugs increases the risk of injury. Car crashes, falls, burns, drowning, and suicide are all linked to drug use.
Keep your edge.
Drug use can ruin your looks, make you depressed, and contribute to slipping grades. One incident of drug use could make you do something that you will regret for a lifetime.
Do the smart thing.
By using drugs or alcohol your health, education, family ties, and social life are at risk.
Face your problems.
Using drugs and drinking won’t help you escape your problems, it will only create more.
Be a real friend.
If you know someone with a drug or alcohol problem, be part of the solution. Urge your friend to get help.
How to Seek Treatment
SAMHSA’s National Helpline
Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
SAMHSA - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
Support Groups
Al-Anon Family: Family and friends of problem drinkers can find understanding and support through group meetings, podcasts, and other resources. http://www.al-anon.org/
Alcohol Anonymous: The AA website can help families find AA meetings near them as well as brochures directed at young people. http://www.aa.org/pages/en_US
Narcotics Anonymous: The NA website can help young people find NA meetings near them as well as resources including brochures for young addicts and parents. http://www.na.org/
Smart Recovery: SMART Recovery is a self-empowering addiction recovery support group. It provides resources for families, teen support programs, meeting locations, and an online community. www.smartrecovery.org/