Parents.

How Do I Tell if My Teen is Using Alcohol or Other Drugs?

Use Your Nose

Both marijuana and alcohol have distinctive scents- look for them in your teen when he or she returns home after a night out. Make a point of having a face-to-face conversation with your teen after he or she returns from a night out. Along with the easily recognizable smells of alcohol and marijuana, be suspicious of the smell of freshly applied lotion or perfume, and strong gum and breath mints.

Look Closer

Marijuana and alcohol have noticeable physical effects too. Pay attention to your teens eyes- if he or she has been smoking pot, the eyes will be red and heavy lidded, with constricted pupils. If he or she has been drinking alcohol, your teens eyes will be dilated, his or her face may be flushed, and he or she will have trouble focusing.

Mood Changes

Does your teen act strangely when he or she gets back to the house after a night out? Loud, obnoxious behaviour, hysterical laughter, clumsiness and queasiness can all signal that he or she has been experimenting with alcohol or drugs. You should also be aware of any long term changes in your teen's mood. If a friendly and outgoing teen becomes withdrawn, sullen and uncommunicative, something is may be going on. Slipping grades, or a general lack of motivation are other signals that you need to look out for.

Car Accidents

A teen's car can sometimes tell you a lot about whether your teen has been using drugs. Does it smell like marijuana smoke or alcohol fumes? Are there any bottles, pipes, bongs, papers of other drug paraphernalia hidden inside? Your teen's driving record can also hold clues. Is your teen's driving noticeably more reckless after a night out? Are there unexplained dents in the car?

Deceit or Secrets

Realizing that a normally honest child has been lying to you can be hurtful, but it can also signal problems with alcohol and drugs. If his or her plans start sounding fishy, or alibis just don't add up, it's time to start asking questions.

Missing Alcohol, Money, or Valuables

No parent wants to believe their child would steal from them for any purpose, much less to buy alcohol or drugs. You may notice that alcohol seems to be missing, or that your wallet sometimes has less money inside than you remember. If you suspect that your child is stealing alcohol, money or valuables, you need to confront him or her, and make it clear that you're aware of what's going on, and that you won't tolerate it.

Change in Friends

It's normal for teenagers to make new friends, but sometimes a change in peer group can give you hints about changes in his or her lifestyle. The new friends might be older, more promiscuous and less interested in school. You might even suspect that they are high or drunk when you are talking to them. No matter what, your teen will defend his or her new peers, but if you have a funny feeling about them, keep your eyes and ears open, and trust your instincts.