It can be hard to tell the difference between a moody teen and a moody teen on drugs. Know the signs that your child may be using alcohol or other drugs.

Some behaviors can throw you off-guard. They are normal for teens who are developing their own identities and asserting independence from their parents. But changes that are extreme or last for more than a few days could be warning signs of drug or alcohol abuse.

• Evidence of drugs and drug paraphernalia, such as pipes, rolling papers, lighters
• Unusual smells on clothing or breath
• Borrowing more money from parents or friends
• Stealing
• Abrupt changes in mood or attitude; unusual temper flare-ups
• Withdrawal, isolation, depression, fatigue
• Bloodshot eyes, pupils that look too large or too small, slurred speech
• Frequent use of eye drops or breath freshener/mouthwash
• Unusual hyperactivity or talkativeness
• Paranoia
• Chronic cough or runny nose
• Needle marks
• Shaky hands
• Increase in accidents or injuries (bruises, scratches)
• Neglected appearance
• Sudden decline in attendance or performance at school or work
• Sudden resistance to discipline at home or school
• Loss of interest in hobbies and/or sports
• Changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Weight loss or gain
• Being awake at unusual times
• Befriending a new group of people who use drugs
• Heightened secrecy about actions or possessions
• Wearing t-shirts and other clothing that have drug-related language.

A teenager's brain is still in development. Skills for judgment and self-control are still forming. Kids need your help to make good decisions.

Know where your teens are at all times. Know what they are doing. Know who they are with. If you think your teen is using drugs or alcohol, the first step is to talk to his or her doctor. A doctor can identify signs of drug use or symptoms of another problem, such as depression or attention deficit disorder (ADD).

Related Articles Parenting Teens With Love and Limits Creatine Use in Teens: Magic Muscles or Risky Business?

External Sources American Academy of Pediatrics. Children's Health Topics. Substance abuse. Accessed May 8, 2008.. Accessed May 08, 2008 American Council for Drug Education. Signs and symptoms of drug use. Accessed May 8, 2008. . Accessed May 08, 2008 Helpguide.org. Drug abuse and addiction. Accessed May 8, 2008. . Accessed May 08, 2008 Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE). Warning signs. Accessed May 8, 2008. . Accessed May 08, 2008 American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Facts for Families. Teens: alcohol and other drugs. Accessed May 8, 2008. . Accessed May 08, 2008

This article was reviewed and updated 08-01-2009.