Signs of Addiction

Here are some of the warning signs of addiction in a child or adolescent:

• The odor of alcohol or tobacco or other odd odors on the breath or skin.

• A change in behavior, becoming more argumentative or isolating themselves.

• Spending more than 20 hours a week on the Internet or playing video games.

• Red eyes and chronic health complaints (flu-like aches and pains, upset stomach).

• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns.

• Loss of interest in school.

• A drop in grades.

• Skipping classes.

• New friends (with little interest in families or school activities).

• Chemical-soaked rags or papers.

• Paint or other stains on clothing, hands or faces.

• Feelings of loneliness.

• Depression

• Harmful or risky behaviors (such as breaking things, vandalism, stealing).

• Hurting themselves (cutting their bodies).

• Compulsive behaviors.

• Eating disorders.