I am suspicious that my sixteen-year-old son may be using some kind of illegal drugs. He's just not himself lately, and his friends are some of the weirdest guys you ever saw. Can you summarize the most common symptoms of drug abuse for me? What should I look for?
A complete answer to that question would fill a book, because there are so many illegal substances on the market today and each has its own characteristic "fingerprint." But there are eight common physical and emotional symptoms you might look for in your son:
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Inflammation of the eyelids and nose is common. The pupils of the eyes are either very wide or very small, depending on the kind of drugs internalized.
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Extremes of energy may be evident. Either the individual is sluggish, gloomy, and withdrawn or he may be loud, hysterical, and jumpy.
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The appetite is extreme--either very great or very poor. Weight loss may occur.
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The personality suddenly changes; the individual may become irritable, inattentive, and confused, or aggressive, suspicious, and explosive.
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Body and breath odor is often bad. Cleanliness is generally ignored.
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The digestive system may be upset--diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting may occur. Headaches and double vision are also common. Other signs of physical deterioration may include change in skin tone and body stance.
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Needle marks on the body, usually appearing on the arms, are an important symptom. These punctures sometimes get infected and appear as sores and boils.
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Moral values often crumble and are replaced by new, avant-garde ideas and values.
Let me caution you that some kids are able to hide their drug use better than others. You might stop by to see the officer in charge of narcotics enforcement for your local police department. He or she may be able to give you more specific information applicable to your son.