How your Teen can Hide their Drug or Alcohol Use
Many people that develop a substance abuse disorder begin using these substances when they are young. There are countless websites devoted to using and obtaining illicit substances.According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are many clear signs that a teen is using drugs or alcohol. Unfortunately, teens often find ways to hide these signs. Here are some ways that your teen may be hiding drug or alcohol use.
Spending Large Amounts of Time Locked in their Room
Everyone knows that teens can be moody and stand-offish at times. However, when this becomes a regular occurrence it is likely that they are hiding something, such as drug or alcohol use. This is especially true if it is out of character for them to behave this way, or if they suddenly start locking every door behind themselves.
Being Away from the House when you Do Not Know Where they Are
If your teen starts locking themselves in their room on a regular basis, they may be hiding substance use.
Raising teenagers can be delicate balancing act between keeping them safe and allowing them to become an independent adult. Most parents will agree, however, that it is still a good idea to know where your teen is, and who they are with.
Asking Friends to Cover For Them
Every parent can tell you that when their child resorts to dishonesty, especially if they drag someone else into it, they are up to no good. If your teen claims to be staying with a friend, but calls to the friend’s parents tell a different story, something is seriously wrong.
Finding Ingenious Hiding Places for Drugs and Alcohol
Teens can also be very inventive in finding places to hide drugs or alcohol. Some of the more ingenious places include:
- battery compartments
- belt buckles with compartments in them
- behind pictures or posters
- inside gaming consoles
- inside stuffed animals
- in seldom worn clothing or shoes
- in lockets or other compartmented jewelry
- inside bags of candies or candy wrappers
- inside highlighters and pens
- insidelip balm or lipstick tubes
All of these things seem unlikely hiding places for drugs or alcohol, yet can serve that purpose effectively. If you happen to find drugs in any of these things, it is important that you seek help immediately. Usually hiding drugs means a serious drug habit and treatment is necessary. You can find the treatment that your teen needs by calling 800-487-1890 (Who Answers?) .
Turning the Blame on Others for Absences
At one time or another, nearly all teens will fail to take responsibility for their actions. This a normal part of growing up. But, when this is combined with frequently breaking curfews, or being somewhere other than where they should be, it is cause for concern. This may be a sign that they are trying to hide drug or alcohol use.
Using Products such as Visine to Hide Signs of Drug Use
Unless your teen has allergies or other health problems that require the frequent use of eye drops, decongestants, or allergy medications, they may be using them to hide signs of drug use such as red eyes, runny nose, and cough.
If you should discover that your teen is using drugs or alcohol, your first step should be to talk to them about it, rationally and calmly. If you further discover that they have a problem it is up to you to get them the help that they need before they ruin their lives. Call us today at 800-487-1890 (Who Answers?) , and let us help you find a treatment option that is right for you and your teen.