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Ways to Recognize Drug Addiction in College Students

The college years can be quite tempting for teens to experiment with alcohol and drugs and many parents worry about their children while they are away. As a parent, it is a good idea to become familiar with the common signs of drug addiction, so that you can recognize if your child is struggling and approach him or her with concern.

Peer pressure can be quite high during the college years, as these years are an interesting stage in every teen’s life where they gain a little freedom and start making life-changing decisions. Unfortunately, some of the choices are not always productive to one’s health. If you are questioning your child’s possible drug use in college, continue reading.

Ways to Recognize Drug Addiction in College Students. 

Being secretive

Being secretive and elusive is a sign that they could be using drugs. They may be sneaking around with friends, missing curfew, and even failing classes in school. They may start to isolate and stay in their room more often. During the first years of college, teens seem to go from one extreme to the other. They are really social and into the party scene or become isolated and stick to themselves. Also, if you notice your child constantly lying to get out of you questioning their behavior, go with your gut instincts that your child may possibly using drugs. 

Mood swings

If your child is using drugs, you may become accustomed to emotional instability and anger outbursts. One minute they can be happy and upbeat while the next they are yelling and cursing you out. Do not take this lightly because it is the biggest behavioral change that you may actually pick up on. Other behaviors sometimes go under the radar.

Schedule change

Eating and sleeping patterns are usually altered. Your child may go from having a lot of energy to an almost comatose state. Consistently losing jobs and unstable relationships are big signs of drug use as well. Facing severe lethargy and lack of concern for hygiene become apparent. Weight loss and sometimes weight gain can be a sign that they are in a struggle of using and quitting. It is also a sign of binge using. They may also have a loss of motivation and no longer care about things that once were of interest.

Money issues

Always asking for money and playing the broke card are tall tale signs of drug usage. You may have noticed money missing or caught them stealing from you. Do not take this lightly. There are teenagers that struggle with money management, but when it becomes a continual issues, it needs to be addressed.

Evidence of drugs

You may find rolling papers or smell drugs on your child. Red or glassy eyes are signs of drug use. Marks on arms from needle usage are extreme signs of drug use and an intervention must be conducted immediately. Finding evidence of drugs may be shocking and appalling, but it is necessary to discuss this with your child.

Drug use in college is more popular than many people think

If you feel that your child is using drugs, be sure to sit down and have a heart to heart conversation and let him or her know your concern.  Be open and honest and let your child know that he or she can be completely honest with you, as you will not pass judgment. 

If your child is struggling with drug use in college and is in need of help, consider contacting a drug rehab center and setting up an appointment with the staff there.  Rehab centers have helped millions of people get and stay clean, as they are staffed with substance abuse professional that can help addicts understand the nature of addiction and equip them with tools that they can use to live each day free from drugs.  If you are in need of assistance, make the effort to reach out for help today.

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