Signs That Your Teen May Need a Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program
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At California Youth Services, we are dedicated to nurturing a safe and healthy environment for the young minds of our Orange County. We understand that adolescence is a critical period when teens face numerous challenges, especially when it comes to drug and alcohol abuse. We firmly believe that by investing in effective prevention programs, we can equip our teens with the knowledge, skills, and resilience necessary to overcome these challenges and lead fulfilling lives.
Being aware of the signs that your teen may need a drug and alcohol prevention program could potentially save their life. Here's what to look out for:
1. Sudden changes in behavior: If your teen starts displaying aggressive behavior, becomes unusually secretive or withdrawn, experiences mood swings, or has a sudden decline in academic performance, it may indicate substance abuse.
2. Hanging out with a new, questionable peer group: If your teen starts spending time with a new group of friends who exhibit concerning behaviors, such as drug or alcohol use, it may indicate a need for a prevention program.
3. Neglecting responsibilities: If your teen is regularly skipping school, neglecting household chores, or no longer participating in extracurricular activities they once enjoyed, it may be a red flag for drug or alcohol use.
4. Physical changes: Look for sudden weight loss or gain, bloodshot eyes, dilated or pinpoint pupils, frequent nosebleeds, unexplained bruises, or a decline in personal hygiene as potential signs of substance abuse.
5. Unexplained financial difficulties: If your teen is frequently asking for money without a logical reason or has unexplained financial problems, they may be using drugs or alcohol and require intervention.
6. Pervasive smells or odors: The smell of drugs or alcohol on their breath, clothes, or belongings can indicate substance use.
7. Missing or stolen valuables: If your teen starts missing personal items or money regularly, or if items start disappearing from your home, it may be a sign that they are stealing to support their substance abuse habit.
8. Changes in sleep patterns: Extreme changes in sleep behavior, such as excessive sleepiness or insomnia, can be indicators of drug or alcohol use.
9. Sudden decline in physical health: Frequent illness, unexplained injuries, or general deterioration of physical health could signify substance abuse.
10. Finding drug or alcohol paraphernalia: Discovering drug-related items, such as drug-related articles, pipes, empty alcohol bottles, pill bottles without proper prescriptions, or drug paraphernalia in your teen's possession or personal space is a clear sign of involvement with drugs or alcohol.
For more information about drug and alcohol prevention programs for teens, visit www.calyouthservices.org. We offer valuable resources and support to help parents navigate through these challenging situations.
Together, let's prioritize the well-being and future of our youth!
Questions, Schedule a Counseling Session, or Need to Enroll Call: (949) 303-9016
