5 Warning Signs of Substance Abuse in Young People

Picture this: a bright, energetic child suddenly starts sleeping all day, their grades crash and their eyes stay red for no reason. Could it be stress or something more dangerous? Drug abuse is silently stealing our youths. Seeing someone close to you struggle with substance abuse is heartbreaking. The good news? Early action can change everything. Here are 5 clear warning signs to watch for, plus simple ways to offer support.

Physical Changes You Can’t Miss

The body often shows the first clues:

Rapid weight loss (without dieting)

Bloodshot eyes that stay red for no reason

Constant tiredness (even after sleeping)

Shaky hands or sweating when not exercising

What to do: Gently mention the changes you’ve noticed. 

School or Work Problems

Substance abuse makes focus impossible. Watch for:

Skipping classes or work frequently

Grades/job performance suddenly dropping

Losing interest in projects they used to love

What to do: Offer practical help. “Want me to quiz you for that test?” or “Let’s work on that report together.”

Money Troubles Start Appearing

Drugs are expensive. Warning signs include:

Always borrowing money (with vague reasons)

Selling favorite belongings suddenly

Unexplained empty wallets or missing household items

What to do: Avoid giving cash. Instead, offer to pay for specific needs, such as lunch or school supplies.

Mood Swings That Don’t Fit

Chemical changes cause emotional rollercoasters:

Laughing too much at nothing, then suddenly angry

Paranoid thoughts (“Everyone’s against me!”)

Not caring about things that used to matter

What to do: Stay calm. Ask “You seem upset. Want to talk about it?” 

Changing Friend Groups Suddenly

New, secretive friends often appear:

Old friends disappear from their life

Won’t introduce new friends to family

Always “just hanging out” but won’t say where

What to do: Invite their old friends over. Sometimes, familiar faces remind them of healthier times.

How to Help 

Talk when they’re sober (mornings are usually best)

Say “I’m worried because I care” works better than accusations

Offer to go with them to a doctor or counselor

Contact experts like Weljii-trained health and wellness coaches who specialize in addiction support

Remember: You can’t force change, but you can plant seeds of hope. One conversation might be the nudge they need.

Where to Get Help in India:

Call the National Toll-Free Drug De-Addiction Helpline: 1800-11-0031

Visit government hospitals with psychiatry departments

Reach out to health and wellness coaches for confidential support

Every person struggling with addiction is someone’s child, friend, or student. By staying alert and offering kindness, we can help guide them to brighter days.

Conclusion 

Spotting drug abuse early can mean the difference between a temporary stumble and a life derailed. Remember – weight loss, mood swings, friend changes, money issues, and school problems are red flags, not “just phases.” Your greatest power? Kind, firm action. Don’t wait for “rock bottom.” A simple “I notice…I care” conversation could start their recovery journey. At Weljii, we train wellness coaches to guide families through these challenging moments with compassion. Every child deserves help, not judgment.