This list of common behavioral indicators typically trigger or an evaluation or referred for services. Services range from addressing substance use, abuse and misuse of prescription or illicit drugs, to prevention/intervention services that may be related to anxiety, depression, trauma, stress or suicidal ideation.
#1: Grades
Shift is Grades/Lower Achievement/Lower Grades
Academic failure
Falls behind in class work
Lack of motivation/apathy
#2: School Attendance
Frequently Absent
Frequently tardy to class
Absent from class, but in school
Frequent schedule changes
Frequent visits to nurse/counselor
#3: Extra Curricular Activities
Loss of eligibility
Decreasing involvement
Dropped out of activities
#4: Physical Signs
Smelling of alcohol or marijuana
Stumbling or other coordination problems
Stuttering or slurred speech
Glassy, bloodshot eyes/wears dark glasses
Sleeping in class
Time disoriented
Physical complaints/injuries
#5: Atypical BehaviorS
Talks freely about substance use
Avoids contact with authority figures
Erratic behavior as viewed day-to-day
Changes in peer group
Inappropriate response/behavior
Defensive
Withdrawn/loner
Appears very sad/depressed
Common Indicator #6: Disruptive BehaviorS
Defiance of rules/constant discipline problem
Cheating
Irresponsibility/blaming or denying
Verbal abuse toward others
Dramatic attention getting
Crying
Constantly in the wrong place
Extremely negative attitude
Hyperactivity/nervousness