Drinking alcohol or using tobacco, nicotine, or other drugs

Teens, and sometimes older students, try alcohol and other substances for different reasons. They might start because they see others doing it, they are curious, because of peer pressure, or a desire to feel included.

Alcohol is legal for adults in most places. Ads often show people having fun while drinking. The same goes for tobacco products like vapes and cigarettes. Many adults use these to relax and have a good time, which can reinforce the perception that their use is common or even expected. But using these substances in unhealthy ways, like to cope with anxiety, depression, or loneliness, can be harmful. It can be especially dangerous for older students and teens because these substances can be addictive.

Other substances of concern include marijuana (like cannabis, edibles, THC oil, dabs, vapes), hallucinogens (like LSD, PCP, mushrooms, ketamine), sedatives (like Xanax, Ambien, Rivotril, Diazepam), stimulants (like Adderall, cocaine, ecstasy, Ritalin), opioids (like heroin, Vicodin, Percocet, morphine), anabolic steroids, inhalants (like glue, whippets), and date rape drugs (like roofies). These substances can be illegal, even for adults, or need a doctor’s prescription, but they can still end up in students’ hands and are very dangerous to their health.

People who often use these substances usually do so to “fix a problem.” Frequent use often begins not for fun, but as an attempt to solve an issue. When substances seem to help, it makes the person want to use them more.

Substances might help with relaxing, feeling less bored, fitting in, escaping pain, dealing with bad memories, sleeping better, or feeling excited for a little while. It is important to know why teens find substances appealing to help prevent negative effects. If substance use gets serious, professional help is needed.

What is typical use?

None. No amount of alcohol or substance use is safe during childhood or teen years.

While alcohol and other substances are illegal for minors, students are curious and may get exposed to them. They might be offered or pressured to use them. Students with issues like anxiety, depression, behavior problems, or hyperactivity are more likely to experiment.

Most substances are harmful, especially in large amounts. Young people react differently to substances than adults. Their brains are very sensitive to substances like alcohol, which can harm their health and development. Using substances might temporarily ease anxiety or create a fun moment, but this increases the chance of repeated use. This can harm their physical growth, everyday life, school performance, and relationships. It can also make them more likely to engage in risky behaviors.

When should I be concerned?

Alcohol or substance use during childhood or teen years is always concerning. The longer a substance is used, the more addictive and dangerous it becomes.

But how do you know if a student is using alcohol or other substances? Besides finding items like bottles or bags, teachers may notice changes in behavior, mood, and physical appearance. These changes depend on the substance used. For instance, smoked tobacco can cause coughing, while stimulants like vapes can cause insomnia and weight loss.

It’s important to remember that none of these signs, in isolation, indicates substance use. Many of them can also be linked to other common adolescent situations, such as anxiety, depression, or periods of change. What deserves attention is when several signs appear together, persistently, or intensely, especially if they mark a clear change from the student’s usual behavior.

Here are signs that might show a child or teen has a substance problem:

• Changes in behavior, routines, and friends
• Mood swings, irritability, or arguments
• Unusual agitation, restlessness, or hyperactivity
• Lethargy, being slowed down, sleep changes or lack of motivation
• Declining grades, skipping school, and poor performance
• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
• Comments from other staff, classmates, or caregivers
• Delinquent or substance-using friends
• Smell of alcohol or tobacco
• Difficulties waking up or falling asleep in class
• Dangerously risky behavior
• Isolating from friends or missing events
• Borrowing or stealing money or valuables

What can I do to help?

Here are some ways to address concerns about a student’s substance use:

1. Express concern and offer support: Let the student know you care and are available to listen without judgment. Often, just knowing that an adult trusts and believes in them makes a difference.
2. Educate about the risks: Provide factual information about the dangers of substance use, including its impact on health, academics, and relationships. Use clear, simple, and age-appropriate examples.
3. Communicate with caregivers: Inform the student’s caregivers about your concerns and observations. Maintain respectful communication, remembering that caregivers and the school can work together to support the student.
4. Collaborate with school support staff: Consult with the school counselor, nurse, social worker, or principal. Working as a team helps define next steps and ensures the student receives the necessary support.
5. Maintain a supportive and drug-free environment: Promote a positive school climate that discourages substance use. Encourage activities, projects, and conversations that value healthy choices.

What kind of professional support can I seek out?

As an educator, you can help by guiding families to the right support. Suggest that they start by talking to the adolescent’s pediatricianor family doctor. These professionals can guide them through the first steps and, if necessary, refer them to a mental health specialist, such as a psychologistor psychiatrist.

You can also inform families about free support available through the Unified Health System (SUS). Care often begins at the nearest Basic Health Unit (UBS), which can refer them to specialized services. These may include Child and Adolescent Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS i), Medical and Psychosocial Specialty Centers, and outpatient clinics at university or regional hospitals.

Remember that educational counselorsand school psychologistsare also important allies. When making a referral, always do so with sensitivity and responsibility.