Warning Signs of Substance Abuse

Some common behavior changes you may notice if someone you know is abusing drugs and/or alcohol are:

• Sudden or extreme changes in friends, eating habits, sleeping patterns, physical appearance, coordination or school performance
• Loss of interest in hobbies or family activities
• Hostile or uncooperative attitude
• Secrecy about actions or possessions
• Stealing money or an unexplained need for money
• Medicine containers, despite a lack of illness, or drug paraphernalia in the individual's possession
• An unusual chemical or medicine smell on the individual, or in the individual's room or automobile