Some people grow out of their use of alcohol and other drugs. But since there is no certain way to predict which teenagers will develop serious problems, all use should be considered dangerous. Highest on the list are those teenagers with a family history of Substance Abuse problems. Although the use of some drugs has leveled off recently, the use of others has not. Those who begin to smoke or drink during their early teens are at particularly high risk.
Most adolescents continue using the earlier drugs as they begin using still others.
Some of the warning signs listed above can also be signs of other problems. Parents may recognize signs of trouble but should not be expected to make the diagnosis. An effective way for parents to show care and concern for their teenager is with them to honestly discuss the use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs. Consulting a physician to rule out physical causes of the warning signs is a good first step. This should often be followed or accompanied by a comprehensive evaluation by a child and adolescent psychiatrist.