Warning signs
Warning signs
There are many signs that could indicate that someone is using drugs. However, these signs must be weighed against a persons natural behaviours or characteristics. The common signs may include:
- mood swings
- not telling the truth
- frequent absence from work or school
- excuses for not showing up or not getting things done
- volatile behaviour, such as arguments or outbursts
- trouble with the law or police
- poor concentration
- inability to remember things
- changes in work or school performance
- disappearing money and valuable assets
- no longer participating in sports, community or extra-curricular activities
- unexplained need for money
- lethargy or lack of motivation
- change of friends and social occasions
- declining interaction with friends and family
- changes in physical appearance
- sudden weight loss or skin problems
- changes in attitude towards life in general.
For all people, however, and especially for teenagers, these signs could be indications of other problems in their lives, such as relationship or financial difficulties, or they could simply just be signs of growing up.
Because of this, accusing someone of taking drugs could make the situation worse or distract from deeper problems in their life.
It is also important to remember that often people use drugs to escape from bad feelings or difficult situations in their lives. Drug use, therefore, may only be a part of any problems that need addressing.
If in doubt, seek help from trained professionals before making any accusations, however helpful you might feel you are being.
