By Jackie Gately

There are many signs that indicate teenage substance abuse. While some represent normal rites of passage through those hormonal teenage years, consider these signs as “red flags” to validate or rule-out your suspicions:

1. Loss of interest in hobbies or favorite activities
2. Falling grades and behavior changes in school
3. Extreme moodiness and irritability
4. Changes in appetite or eating habits
5. Physical indicators, like glassy eyes, a stuffy nose, or stagger
6. Changes in friends, particularly if new friends are older or adults
7. Frequent lying and secrecy
8. Having excess amounts of cash
9. Missing money and personal belongings
10. Run-ins with the law or school authorities

Just how much to trust your teen is controversial. However, issues of privacy can be insignificant when weighed against your child’s safety. If you suspect something beyond ordinary teen drama, and have reason to believe alcohol or drugs are the culprits, don’t turn a blind eye. It’s in his best interest for you to invade his space.

Rely on your own instincts or opt for a data-driven source of information, such as a vehicle tracking system, to hone in on the issue:

1. The best approach is always honesty. Approach your child directly to let him know of your suspicions. If he admits to a problem, be supportive of his efforts to become drug and alcohol-free.
2. Consistently communicate that drug and alcohol usage will not be tolerated. If you haven’t established an on-going dialog about the safety risks of drugs and alcohol use, start now.
3. Discuss views on drugs and alcohol with his friends; they might reveal more than intended.
4. Check the laundry basket. Drugs, receipts, beer labels, or written notes are often stashed in clothing pockets or backpacks.
5. Go on a cleaning spree. You might find more than you bargained for.
6. Network with other teens’ parents to find out what’s going on in social circles. Other parents may have an inside track or similar concerns but hesitate to approach you.
7. Discuss your child’s behavior and academic work with teachers to gain insight.
8. Check his computer. Browser history, instant messaging, emails, MySpace and Facebook can help fill in the blanks as to what might be going on.
9. Run errands when he’s out with friends and drive by familiar hangouts for a glimpse of the social landscape.
10. Install a vehicle tracking system to gather concrete data needed to confront your teen and get him help.

Jackie Gately is a freelance writer and mother of two children. She can be reached at jackiegately.wordpress.com.