Cocaine use among teens is not common. Only about 3.4% of 10th graders and 5.2% of 12th graders have used the drug in the past year. Plus, most of that usage is just experimental. However, cocaine is a highly addictive, illicit substance. Therefore, any teen cocaine use should be taken very seriously. Being familiar with the warning signs of cocaine use can be helpful when identifying a problem. Also, teens need to be educated about the dangers of this drug.
Bloodshot eyes, dramatic weight loss, motivation loss, mood swings, loss of appetite, depression, decreased performance at school, a change in friends, and the presence of drug paraphernalia are all signs that your teen may be using cocaine or other illegal drugs. Other signs include changes in sleeping patterns. People who use cocaine will often stay away for long periods of time, even days. Once they come down from the drug, it is not uncommon to crash or sleep for long periods of time. If your teen has an addiction to cocaine or any other drug, they may be constantly borrowing or even stealing money or other possessions to support their habit. Also, they often fall short of handling their responsibilities. Even their hygiene may become questionable.
Many teens do not realize the potential dangers that are associated with cocaine use. Although addiction is one of the biggest concerns, serious bodily injury and even death can occur from abusing this drug. Overdose can occur with even a small amount of cocaine and when the drug is combined with alcohol or other substances, it can quickly become lethal. Seizures, heart attack, respiratory problems, stroke, and brain damage have all been associated with cocaine use.
If your teen or someone you know is using cocaine, getting help is very important. The faster that the problem is recognized and treated, the higher the success rate of recovery. There are residential treatment centers and drug addiction therapists that work specifically with teenagers who struggle with drug abuse. The important thing is to seek professional help immediately.
