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Substance use among children, teens, and young adults can have serious effects on their education and overall well-being. It often leads to poor academic performance, increased absences, and difficulty concentrating or staying motivated in school. Beyond the classroom, substance use can damage relationships with family and friends, lead to risky behavior, and increase the chances of developing mental health issues. Early use also raises the risk of long-term addiction, affecting future goals and opportunities in life.
Drug Classification
Drug Classification
Drugs can be classified into several categories based on their effects on the body and mind. Here are the main categories:
Stimulants – Increase alertness and energy (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines, nicotine, caffeine).
Depressants – Slow down brain activity and can cause drowsiness (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates).
Opioids – Powerful painkillers that can cause euphoria and are highly addictive (e.g., heroin, morphine, prescription painkillers like oxycodone).
Hallucinogens – Alter perception, thoughts, and feelings (e.g., LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, PCP).
Cannabis – Often categorized separately; can have stimulant, depressant, and hallucinogenic effects (e.g., marijuana, THC products).
Inhalants – Substances inhaled for a quick high, often toxic (e.g., glue, paint thinners, nitrous oxide).
Designer drugs / Synthetic drugs – Man-made drugs designed to mimic other drugs (e.g., synthetic cannabinoids like "spice," bath salts).
Warning Signs
Warning Signs
Spotting the use of drugs or substances can be challenging, but there are several warning signs to look out for in their behavior, appearance, and social life. These may include:
Behavioral Changes:
Behavioral Changes:
Sudden mood swings, irritability, or aggression
Loss of interest in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed
Drop in academic performance or skipping school
Secretive behavior or lying about whereabouts
Stealing money or valuables
Physical Signs:
Physical Signs:
Bloodshot eyes or frequent use of eye drops
Unusual tiredness or hyperactivity
Sudden weight loss or gain
Poor hygiene or changes in appearance
Smell of smoke, alcohol, or chemicals on breath or clothes
Social Changes:
Social Changes:
Hanging out with a new, possibly older peer group
Avoiding family time or isolating themselves
Getting into trouble at school or with the law
Not all of these signs confirm substance use, but a combination of several should be taken seriously. Open, non-judgmental communication and seeking help from a counselor, doctor, or school professional can be key in addressing the issue early.
Resources available in Orange County
Our Family Support Services provide advocacy and ongoing support to families. Services include peer-to-peer support, behavioral health education, including substance use disorder, wellness topics, and developing healthy coping tools to support the family.
Our Family Support Services provide advocacy and ongoing support to families. Services include peer-to-peer support, behavioral health education, including substance use disorder, wellness topics, and developing healthy coping tools to support the family.
Our Program is dedicated to providing supportive services to multicultural communities, increasing access to mental health supportive services, and improving mental health outcomes in the communities we serve. The Family Support Services Program provides individual peer-to-peer support or mentorship, Emotional support groups, and educational workshops on self-care and substance use disorder.
Our Program is dedicated to providing supportive services to multicultural communities, increasing access to mental health supportive services, and improving mental health outcomes in the communities we serve. The Family Support Services Program provides individual peer-to-peer support or mentorship, Emotional support groups, and educational workshops on self-care and substance use disorder.
At Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA) Children and Youth Services (CYS), we're here to help kids and teens feel better when they're going through a tough time. Our programs are open to children and youth from 0 through 20 years old and we offer a range of services to support their mental health and substance use needs. We're dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming space where they can get the support they need to thrive.
Visit OC Navigator for more information and resources
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