This document provides information about recognizing drug use and abuse behaviors in teens. It includes statistics on drug use, descriptions of common drugs, and signs of drug abuse related to personal appearance, habits, health, behavior, and school performance. The document recommends talking openly with teens about drugs, setting clear rules and consequences, and seeking professional help if drug use is suspected. Resources for drug treatment options in the local area are also listed.

1. Recognizing drugs and drug use behaviorDiana Rumage, BS, CADCSummer Bell, LCSWJan 12, 2010

2. AgendaStatisticsTypes of drugsInformation on specific drugsSigns & symptoms of drug useWhat to do if you suspect your child is usingResources for treatment

3. StatisticsIn 2002 illegal drug use cost Americans close to $181 billion ($129 billion in lost productivity, $16 billion in healthcare costs & $36 billion in other costs, such as efforts to stem the flow of drugs).In 2008, 2 million Americans age 12 and older abused inhalants.Teenagers whose parents talk to them regularly about dangers of drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs – 1 in 4 teens reports having these conversations.8.9% of youth ages 12-17 have misused inhalants.1 in 5 teens have used inhalants in their lifetime.2 in 5 teens have used marijuana.15.4% of 12th graders reported using a prescription drug nonmedically within the past year.

4. Types of DrugsDepressants – alcohol, valium, xanax, clonipin, GHB, rohypnolStimulants - meth, adderall, ritalin, cocaine/crack, ecstasy, nicotineHallucinogens – LSD, Mescaline, mushroomsOpiates – codeine, heroin, morphine, oxycodone, vicodin, lortabOthers – steroids, DXM, inhalants, ketamine, PCP

6. DarvocetVicodin

7. OxycontinLortab

10. Crystal meth

17. Dextromethorphan (DXM)

19. Cocaine

21. Hallucinogens

22. Signs of Substance AbusePersonal AppearancePersonal HabitsBehavioral IssuesHealth IssuesSchool Issues

23. Personal AppearanceMessy, shows lack of caring of appearancePoor hygiene Track marks Burns or soot on fingers or lipsChapped lips and area around the lipsDilated pupils

24. Personal Habits or ActionsClenching teethChewing gum or mints to cover-up breathHeavy use of otc meds to reduce eye reddening, nasal irritation or bad breathFrequently breaks curfewAvoiding eye contactReckless driving, car accidents“munchies” or sudden appetiteHaving no appetite

25. Behavioral IssuesChange in relationships with friends and familyLoss of inhibitionsMood changes or emotional instabilityLoud, obnoxious behaviorSullen, withdrawn, depressedUnusually tiredDeceitful or secretiveUnable to speak intelligibly, slurred speech Makes endless excusesDecreased motivation

26. Health IssuesNosebleedsRunny noseSores, spots around mouthQueasy, nauseousSeizures VomitingWetting lips or excessive thirst (cotton mouth)Sudden or dramatic weight loss or gainSweatinessDepressionSkin abrasions/injuries

27. School IssuesTruancyLoss of interest in activities, hobbies or sportsHaving discipline problems(detention, suspension) Low gradesSleeping in class

28. Other signsFinding empty aerosol cans/alcohol bottlesMoney/valuables missingFinding rolling papers, bongs, eye drops, butane lighters, aluminum foil, razors, disassembled writing pens for straws, bent spoons, syringesDisappearance of prescription drugs or over-the-counter pills

29. What to do if you think someone is using?Ask them- don’t be confrontationalshow concern & lovebe directtry not to be defensivelisten

30. Be specific about your concernsTell them what you see (signs of using), causes of concern

31. Explain how behavior/appearance has changedDon’t make excusesSet limits and consequencesWrite a contract with you kids - design rules and regulations that work for both of you

32. Lay down rules

33. Set firm consequences

34. Be consistent

35. Monitor behavior Get professional help

36. Outpatient counseling services in Owensboro that provide adolescent drug/alcohol services:Back to Basics Counseling – 684-3500 – 227 St. Ann St.Rivervalley Behavioral health – 689-6800 – 1100 WalnutLighthouse Counseling Services – 689-0073 – 920 Frederica St.

37. Adolescent inpatient drug/alcohol treatment facilities in Kentucky:Lighthouse Adolescent Recovery Center Rivendell Behavioral Health 1935 Bluegrass Avenue 1035 Porter Pike Road Louisville, KY 40215 Bowling Green, KY 42103 502-366-0705 1-800-548-2621 www.Rivendellbehavioral.com Lincoln Trail Behavioral Health 3909 S. Wilson Road Ten Breock Hospital Radcliff, KY 40160 8521 LaGrange Road 270-351-9444 Louisville, KY 40242 1-502-426-6380 The Ridge www.tenbroeck.com3050 Rio Dosa DriveLexington, KY 405091-800-548-2621www.ridgebhs.com