According to national data from various countries, nearly 50% of teenagers are at risk of developing an illicit drug use disorder. Around 20% of them have used prescription drugs recreationally, and 40% report smoking cigarettes. These percentages may vary slightly by country, but one of the most alarming statistics is that 70% of teens try alcohol before finishing high school.
How can you identify teens struggling with substance addiction? There are several signs to look out for. One of the first indicators is recurring episodes of anxiety and euphoria.
Sudden mood swings, criminal behavior, or drastic changes in appearance or personality can also point to substance use. Additionally, it is tough for teens to hide cravings or the effects of addiction, for long behavioral shifts tend to surface over time.
Anxiety will ensue
One of the hallmark symptoms of addiction among teenagers is anxiety. Why do they experience it? Often, they are unsure about their actions and fear the long-term consequences of alcohol or drug use.
These concerns link addiction to mental health triggers and often fuel anxiety. Experts note that anxiety is one of the most prominent psychological effects of early substance use.
Initially, anxiety arises as a direct result of the substance itself. Then, teens become anxious about their behavior, genuinely worried about when and how they can fix it.
Eventually, they begin searching for a way out. For instance, teenagers facing financial or academic pressure may turn to substances as a coping mechanism.
Over time, they start justifying their behavior, which gradually builds emotional dependence. As a result, they begin to feel anxious when they are not consuming the substance, a clear sign of growing addiction.
Mood swings
Another common symptom among teens struggling with addiction is frequent mood swings. If someone exhibits unpredictable or extreme changes in mood, there is a strong chance they may be dealing with substance-related issues.
As addiction progresses, these mood swings tend to become more intense and more frequent. Emotional stability declines, and the duration of mood shifts typically increases as well.
Depression
This is often considered the third stage of teen alcohol abuse. Within 8 to 10 months of chronic alcohol use, many teenagers enter a depressive state. This condition is likely to become chronic if left untreated. That is why immediate access to addiction recovery resources is essential.
If not addressed, depression and anxiety can spiral out of control.
Sleeplessness
Insomnia is common among nearly 50% of teenagers who consume alcohol or use other substances. Ironically, many teens believe alcohol or drugs can help them sleep.
Initially, substances may aid sleep, but over time, the body builds tolerance, and the effect wears off, leading to increased dependency.
Abrupt absences
Teenagers often try to hide their substance use from family members, leading to withdrawal and social avoidance.
If someone suddenly distances themselves from friends, family, or even school and social events, it may be a red flag. Secretive behavior and isolation are common signs of addiction.
Criminal behavior
When teenagers cannot financially support their growing addiction, it often results in one of three outcomes:
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
- Deepening depression
- Criminal behavior, such as stealing, to fund their addiction
- This represents a critical turning point that necessitates urgent professional assistance.
New social groups
Teens with substance use issues often drift away from their regular social circles, especially if their friends or siblings disapprove of their habits.
Instead, they seek out new peer groups that normalize or even encourage substance use.
Changes in appearance
During adolescence, the body undergoes rapid physical development. Substance abuse can disrupt this growth, leading to noticeable changes.
Some teens may lose weight due to increased metabolism or muscle breakdown caused by certain drugs. Others may gain weight, depending on the substance used.
Significant, unexplained weight loss or gain should not be ignored.
Strong addiction craving
Cravings are often intense during the teenage years. Many young people struggle to control these urges, which can lead to behavioral issues such as:
- Irritability or aggression
- Emotional numbness
- Lack of empathy
- If you observe someone behaving unusually or seeming consumed by their cravings, it is essential to take action. Begin by initiating a supportive conversation and highlighting the behavioral changes they may not be aware of.
- If the person is unresponsive, alert close friends or family members who can intervene. Untreated cravings can lead to dangerous decisions, including self-harm or illegal activity.
Euphoria
Many addictive substances can trigger intense euphoria in teenagers. However, what exactly is substance-induced euphoria?
It is an exaggerated feeling of happiness or excitement that occurs at inappropriate times, such as during serious conversations or stressful situations.
This behavior is often socially disruptive and signals that the brain is struggling to process alcohol or drug use.
Recognizing euphoria as a symptom of addiction is crucial, especially in teens, whose developing brains are more vulnerable to chemical imbalances.
The Bottom Line
There are several warning signs of substance addiction in teenagers, including behavioral shifts, mood instability, and physical changes.
What matters most is taking action. Many teens live in denial about their addiction, so they may not ask for help directly.
If you are concerned, offer your support or encourage them to consult a medical professional. In some cases, simply opening the door to conversation can make a life-changing difference.
