In adolescents presenting with behavioral changes, what condition should be evaluated for?

When evaluating adolescents who present with behavioral changes, it is crucial to consider substance use disorder. This demographic is particularly vulnerable to experimentation and use of various substances, which can lead to significant alterations in behavior, mood, and social interactions. Behavioral changes such as increased secrecy, sudden changes in friendships or school performance, and mood swings can often signal underlying issues related to substance use, including potential addiction.

Identifying substance use disorder early can lead to appropriate interventions to prevent more serious consequences, such as legal issues, health problems, or academic failure. Adolescents may be reluctant to disclose substance use, making careful observation and screening extremely important.

While conditions like depressive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and learning disabilities can indeed cause behavioral changes, the immediate evaluation for substance use is critical given the potential risks and the rising prevalence of these issues among adolescents. Therefore, substance use disorder should be prioritized in the assessment of behavioral changes in this age group.