Some people mistakenly think of drug addiction as a problem that only adults experience. However, teenage addiction is a common problem across Canada. Unfortunately, teens who need help don’t always know how to ask for it. That’s why it’s important for family members and friends to spot the signs of addiction in teens.
At Venture Academy, our treatment programs are specifically designed for teens and their unique needs. In fact, our team of experts designs a customized treatment plan for each teen in our care. Our decades of combined experience allows us to provide the highest level of care for teens dealing with addiction issues. If you are the parent or guardian of a teen who could benefit from compassionate and comprehensive treatment, our Venture Academy programs may help.
First, however, you must determine whether your teen does indeed have an addiction issue. Our Venture Academy team wants you to have the information that you may need about the signs of teenage addiction.
Drug Abuse and Teenage Addiction
Teens who abuse drugs have a bigger chance of developing an addiction. In fact, it’s important for people to understand what makes drug abuse different from addiction.
Many teens experiment with drugs but don’t necessarily develop a disorder. However, those who abuse drugs do have a greater chance of developing the disease.
Drug abuse is more likely to lead to addiction in teens than in adults. One reason is that the teenage brain is still in development. It’s much easier for drugs to change the chemical balance of an underdeveloped brain.
Why Do Teens Abuse Drugs?
There are many reasons why teens abuse drugs. Some of the most common include:
- Peer pressure
- Stress
- Escape
- Emotional turmoil
- Curiosity
Curiosity and peer pressure are the two most common reasons why teens start taking drugs. Many are simply curious about what taking drugs feel like. If they have friends that use drugs, they often feel pressure to use them, too.
How to Spot Signs of Addiction
While drug abuse comes before addiction, it doesn’t take long for the disease to develop after teens start using drugs. Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to spot the signs of teenage addiction. One sign is a decline in school grades. This change is even more apparent in teens who generally get good grades.
Families can look out for many other changes as well. Common signs of teenage addiction include:
- Extreme mood changes – happy, sad, excited, anxious, etc
- Sleeping a lot more or less than usual, or at different times of the day or night
- Changes in energy – unexpectedly and extremely tired or energetic
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Unexpected and persistent coughs or sniffles
- Seeming unwell at certain times and better at other times
- Pupils of the eyes seeming smaller or larger than usual
Families can look out for many physical changes as well. Common signs include poor hygiene, bloodshot eyes, and an overall diminished personal appearance. It’s also common for teens who use drugs to remain sleepy throughout the day.
In general, teenage addiction increases the likelihood that teens will engage in secretive behavior. They know something is wrong, but they can’t stop. It’s up to their parents to step in to get help. Parents who think that their teens have a drug problem should talk to their doctors or counselors.
Let Venture Academy Help Your Troubled Teen
At Venture Academy, we specialize in troubled teen programs. We know the importance of helping them overcome drug addiction. Starting drug and alcohol treatment early gives them the best chance for recovery. Some of the services that we offer include:
- Behaviour treatment
- Residential treatment
- 30-day assessment and intervention
- Individual and group therapy
Don’t let your teen struggle with drug addiction any longer. Get the help that they need at Venture Academy. Reach out to our friendly staff today at 866.762.2211 for more information,
