We often see noticeable signs of addiction in adults, but many people miss the symptoms of addiction in teens and young adults. What is sometimes passed off as normal teenage moodiness and exhaustion can actually be a symptom of a greater problem.
In this brief article, a team member from our alcohol addiction treatment in Tampa shares a few signs to look out for if you think your child may be struggling with addiction. Remember, it’s important to speak with a licensed professional if you suspect that your child needs help. Additionally, there may be other signs of addiction that are not listed below.
Noticeable Changes in Mood or Increased Mood Swings
In the teenage and young adult years, your child is experiencing changing hormones and is likely to feel mood swings. Mood swings associated with those changing hormones are completely normal, which is why your child’s mood can be one of the hardest changes to spot in relation to alcohol or drug abuse.
The difference between normal teenage hormones and signs of addiction is that when addiction is involved, your child is more likely to be aggressive and may lack self-control. They might seem quick to anger but lacking in energy or drive. You may notice this especially when they are unable to go out or spend time alone, for example on family trips.
Loss of Interest in Friendships or Activities
Teens sometimes grow out of certain activities or friendships, but for the most part they tend to stick with a core group of friends or look to a core friendship or activity for validation. But, if your child has changed to a new group of friends or has lost interest in activities they used to be passionate about, this can be a major red flag.
Watch your child with their interactions with friends, teachers, and activity directors. If they used to have a solid relationship but now those relationships are falling apart, especially when it is happening all at once, it might be time to explore the reality that your child could be struggling with addiction.
Your previously high-achieving child may also struggle to maintain interest in school if they are battling an addiction. The first sign of this is often a lower-than-usual report card.
Appearance of Apathy or Being Withdrawn from Family
Similar to the previous two signs, if your child is withdrawn from family and seems generally apathetic, this can be another major red flag. Your child may seem sad or overall not themselves. These are symptoms of depression as well, which may predispose your child to self-medicate and therefore create a negative relationship with drugs or alcohol leading to addiction. In some cases, the level of addiction is worsened with the abuse of substances.
If you suspect that your child is struggling with addiction, look for alcohol abuse treatment in Tampa. Help is available with Phoenix House Florida. Licensed therapists will help you and your child address and unlock the causes behind the addictive behaviors in order to treat the disease of addiction.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, speak with a center for alcohol abuse treatment in Tampa, Phoenix House Florida. To schedule a consultation with Phoenix House Florida, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Phoenix House Florida website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services provided by Phoenix House Florida or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.