Hard drugs are those that are more dangerous and likely to cause addiction. This may include drugs such as heroin or cocaine, compared to soft drugs like cannabis or kratom. Hard drugs are also more likely to have harsher criminal penalties if someone is caught using, transporting, or selling them. Addressing an addiction to these drugs is essential to helping your teen get back on track.
At Foothills at Red Oak Recovery, we want to help families like yours get the support they need. Contact us at 866.300.5275 about teen drug use and addiction treatment for more information.
What Are the Signs of Teen Drug Use?
There are dozens of signs and symptoms of teen drug use, like changes in behavior or appearance. Here are some of the more noticeable changes you may notice as a parent or guardian that indicate a problem.
Changes in Appearance
One of the signs that your teen may be using hard drugs is a significant change in appearance. This change in appearance could be anything from having unexplained bruises or track marks to having unusual nosebleeds or careless personal hygiene. They may also appear malnourished or pale.
Not all changes in appearance are a sign of drug use, but there is a possibility that changes could indicate teen substance abuse. It’s worth sitting down and having a conversation to address your concerns.
Some red flags to watch out for include:
- Flushed cheeks
- Unexplained bruises
- Tremors
- Shaking
- Nosebleeds
- Disheveled appearance
- Bloodshot eyes
If you recognize these and other signs in your teen, you may need to find treatment as quickly as possible.
Changes in Behavior
Changes in behavior may also be a sign that your teen is using drugs. Some changes may include:
- Acting more secretive
- Locking their doors
- Missing classes or extracurricular activities
- Avoiding discussions or contact with you
- Changing their friend group.
Some of these changes might seem normal in adolescence, but you will notice if your usually introverted child becomes extroverted or vice-versa. Note any unusual changes so that you can address them.
If You Suspect Your Teen of Using Drugs, Here’s What to Do
If you believe that your teen is using drugs, it’s essential to talk to a local drug addiction treatment facility about your options. You may be able to enroll them in a teen addiction outpatient or inpatient program so they get the mental health support and physical support they need.
Since hard drugs are more addictive and dangerous, it’s vital that you look into detoxification programs, too. Medical detox is a great way to detox from hard drugs safely. In this treatment, your teen gets back on track quickly with the medical support they need to avoid a dangerous relapse or overdose.
Talk to your teen if you think they’re using drugs or alcohol. If they admit to substance use or an addiction, then you can begin working on a plan with them to get help. In some cases, you may know that something is wrong, but you’re not sure what. Intervention or support from a drug addiction treatment facility may help you choose the proper method for handling your concerns.
Contact Foothills at Red Oak Recovery
Teens can be hard to predict, and they go through a lot of changes during adolescence. They face peer pressure and may get caught up in doing the wrong things.
If you believe that your teen is using hard drugs or needs support with drug addiction treatment, we’re here to help. At Foothills at Red Oak Recovery, we work with teen substance abuse and know what it takes to get your child back on track. Contact us today at 866.300.5275 to learn more about our enrollment process and how we treat teen addiction.
