Signs that a student may be using alcohol or drugs
Physical Signs and Symptoms of Substance Use
• Slurred Speech
• Bloodshot Eyes
• Dilated or pinpoint pupils
• Mood Swings/Changes
• Irritability
• Poor Hygiene
• Marked Appetite Change
• Significant Weight Change
• Marked Change in Sleep Patterns
Behavioral Signs and Symptoms of Substance Use
• Changes in friends
• Negative changes in schoolwork, missing school, or declining grades
• Increased secrecy about possessions or activities
• Falling asleep in class
• Use of incense, room deodorant, or fragrance to hide smoke or chemical odors
• Subtle changes in conversations with friends, e.g. more secretive, using “coded” language
• Increase in borrowing money
• Drug paraphernalia (pipes, rolling papers, etc.)
• Evidence of use of inhalant products (hairspray, nail polish, correction fluid, common household products); Rags and paper bags are sometimes used as accessories
• Bottles of eye drops, which may be used to mask bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils
• New use of mouthwash or breath mints to cover up the smell of alcohol
When Intervening with a Substance User, remember:
• this is not merely a “character” issue
• even when the individual appears defensive, he is likely to be very ashamed of his behavior
• judging or moralizing may cause increased withdrawal
• often, family problems or other stressors contribute to the individual’s desire to numb feelings
• a safe, supportive, understanding opportunity to begin discussing using behavior is vital
• you don’t need to (or can’t) “fix” the situation alone
• assisting the individual to connect with supportive resources is essential
Mandated Assistance Program - When a potential concern is identified:
• Discuss your concern with Designated Staff Member
• Designated Staff Member will meet with student
• Designated Staff Member contacts parent(s)
• Designated Staff Member contacts Aleinu
• Aleinu Addiction Specialist arranges and completes comprehensive assessment with student and parents
• Aleinu Addiction Specialist reviews recommendations with student and parents; mandated recommendation also sent to school
• Monthly follow-up coordinated by Aleinu Addiction Specialist monitors compliance with recommendations
“Funded by County of Los Angeles, DPH, Alcohol and Drug Program
Administration”