Sign: Forgetfulness or Poor Short-Term Memory
"At this point I don't know what to think. Mike forgets his books at school, forgets his homework at home even when he does it, forgets appointments, forgets his expensive new sneakers in the school locker room. If he says one more time to me, "Oh, I forgot" I'll tear my hair out."
We are not talking about a normal level of forgetfulness. Teens have a lot on their minds, and even hormone changes can affect memory. However, if your teen seems to be on the verge of premature senility, look closer at the problem. Be particularly concerned if the child's energy seems very low - eyes are glassy or they seem "out of it." Marijuana in particular impacts short-term memory.
"Adolescents are particularly at risk of adverse reactions from hallucinogen use as they enter puberty, a time of rapid physical and emotional changes. Hallucinogens are particularly dangerous because the effects are so unpredictable. They can cause violent behavior in some and suicidal tendencies in others. As memory, perception, and judgment are clouded under the influence, users are at risk of severe injuries, overdose, and death from drowning, burns, falls, and car accidents. Sometimes, hallucinogen use can uncover severe mental disorders, such as schizophrenia or severe depression." Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse.
