10 Signs Your Teen May Be Struggling With Drugs
Spotting early signs of drug use in teens can be challenging but is crucial for their well-being. Behavioral, emotional, social, physical, and academic changes often point to potential substance use. Here are the key warning signs to watch for:
- Sudden Changes in Behavior: Mood swings, irritability, withdrawal from family, secrecy, and shifts in energy or sleep habits.
- Emotional Instability: Unpredictable mood swings, paranoia, emotional numbness, or overreactions.
- Declining Academic Performance: Falling grades, skipping classes, lack of focus, or conflicts with teachers.
- New Friend Groups: Abruptly changing friends, secrecy about social activities, or influence from peers engaging in risky behaviors.
- Physical Appearance Changes: Bloodshot eyes, weight fluctuations, poor hygiene, or unusual smells.
- Possession of Drug-Related Items: Pipes, e-cigarettes, pill bottles, or other suspicious objects.
- Increased Privacy: Excessive secrecy, avoiding family time, or guarding their phone and personal space.
- Missing Money or Items: Unexplained financial needs or disappearing valuables.
- Eating and Sleeping Changes: Irregular sleep patterns, appetite shifts, or extreme fatigue.
- Avoiding Questions or Anger: Evasive responses, defensiveness, or hostility during conversations.
If you notice these signs, open communication is essential. Approach your teen with empathy and focus on their safety. Early intervention can prevent long-term consequences and help them navigate challenges.
Signs of Teen Drug Use | What to Look For & What to Do | Early Warning Signs
1. Sudden Changes in Behavior
A sudden shift in your teen’s behavior can be one of the clearest signs that they might be experimenting with drugs. These changes often happen quickly and can feel like a stark contrast to their usual personality.
For instance, a teen who’s usually cheerful might become irritable or even aggressive, while a typically quiet one could start behaving in an unusually hyperactive or erratic way. These mood swings tend to be more extreme and unpredictable than the typical ups and downs of adolescence.
Pay attention if your teen begins withdrawing from family activities or suddenly changes their group of friends without offering any explanation. These shifts in relationships may point to deeper issues that deserve closer attention.
You might also notice a drop in academic performance, more frequent absences from school, or a sudden disinterest in extracurricular activities. For example, they could quit sports, music lessons, or other hobbies they once enjoyed, often without a clear reason.
Increased secrecy can also be a red flag. Avoiding eye contact, locking their bedroom door, or being overly protective of their phone could indicate that they’re hiding something. Excuses or lies about their whereabouts might also become more common.
Physical changes can be another clue. Some teens may start showing signs of clumsiness, like stumbling or struggling with balance, even if they’ve never been uncoordinated before. These physical changes often align with noticeable shifts in energy levels and sleep patterns.
Speaking of sleep, irregular sleeping habits can disrupt their daily routine. They might go through bouts of sleeplessness or bursts of energy, followed by long stretches of exhaustion.
The key is to recognize when these behaviors are out of character for your teen. If you notice these patterns, it’s important to start an open and honest conversation. Observing these changes can give you a starting point for addressing any concerns about potential drug use.
2. Mood Swings and Emotional Changes
Teen drug use can amplify the natural ups and downs of adolescence, turning them into rapid, unpredictable mood swings. Your teen might go from feeling euphoric to suddenly experiencing deep sadness or anxiety, often without any obvious reason. These emotional rollercoasters can leave you wondering what’s really going on.
Paranoia is another red flag. Teens may start making unfounded accusations or develop irrational fears, like believing they’re being watched. This suspicion often spills over into relationships, leading them to question the intentions of friends, teachers, and even family members.
You might also notice emotional numbness – a lack of reaction to things that would typically spark joy, pride, or even disappointment. Whether it’s a celebration or a setback, their response might seem muted or absent altogether.
On the flip side, small frustrations could trigger explosive anger or lingering despair. These reactions often feel out of proportion to the situation, making conflict resolution especially challenging.
Pay attention to how your teen handles stress. Sudden aggression or complete withdrawal during tense moments can be a sign of deeper struggles. During family interactions, take note if they seem overwhelmed by simple decisions, react unpredictably, or appear disconnected from others’ emotions. These emotional shifts aren’t just moodiness – they’re signals that something might be wrong. If you notice these patterns, it’s time to have an open and honest conversation about substance use.
3. Dropping Grades and School Problems
Shifts in academic performance often reveal struggles that go beyond the classroom. When drugs take priority, schoolwork tends to suffer, and the consequences show up quickly in grades and behavior.
A student who once excelled might suddenly start failing tests, turning in incomplete assignments, or missing deadlines altogether. Teachers may contact you about your teen’s lack of focus in class, instances of sleeping at their desk, or seeming disoriented during lessons.
Attendance problems can also be a major red flag. Your teen might begin skipping classes, showing up late, or frequently leaving school early with questionable excuses. Some may physically attend school but avoid classes by lingering in bathrooms, empty hallways, or even sneaking off campus. Forged notes or fabricated reasons for absences might also come into play.
Beyond attendance, a noticeable withdrawal from teacher interactions can signal deeper issues. A once-engaged student might stop participating in discussions, become unresponsive, or even start clashing with teachers. Disrespect, disciplinary issues, or conflicts that were never problems before may suddenly arise.
Extracurricular activities often take a hit as well. Teens might quit sports, clubs, or other commitments due to poor performance or rule violations. Coaches and sponsors may observe missed practices, low energy, or a negative shift in attitude.
Subtle details, like declining handwriting quality or difficulty with tasks they used to handle easily, can also be telling. When asked about school, your teen might become defensive or evasive, blaming teachers for being “unfair”, dismissing assignments as irrelevant, or brushing off grades as unimportant. These changes in attitude often creep in gradually, making them easy to overlook at first.
If you notice these academic warning signs, don’t wait for report cards to confirm your concerns. Proactively reach out to teachers, guidance counselors, and coaches to get a clearer picture of what’s happening during school hours. Keeping a close eye on these behaviors can help you decide if it’s time to step in and offer support.
4. New Friend Groups
When your teen suddenly swaps their longtime friends for a new group, it’s something to take note of. These changes often unfold gradually, but by the time you notice, the shift can feel dramatic. A new social circle can significantly shape your teen’s behavior and the choices they make.
You might observe your teen cutting ties with old friends abruptly, offering little explanation for the change. They may become secretive about their plans or avoid mentioning who they’re spending time with. Friends who used to hang out at your house may vanish, replaced by new faces you’ve never met – or only heard about in passing.
“A teen’s circle of friends can also shape their beliefs and behavior regarding substance use. Teens are constantly trying to figure out how they fit into their world. As they work to find their place, they can be strongly influenced by peer pressure. If young people spend time with other teens who are engaged in risky, unhealthy behaviors, they are more likely to engage in those behaviors themselves.” – Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation
Your teen might also start frequenting unfamiliar places or become vague about their whereabouts. You could notice a sudden interest in activities that seem unusual or concerning, leaving you wondering what’s behind the change.
Shifting friend groups can be a sign of deeper issues. Peer influence plays a huge role in shaping teen behavior, often more than parental guidance. Studies reveal that peers have a stronger impact on adolescent substance use than parents. This makes it especially important to pay attention when your teen becomes defensive about their new friends. A sudden shift in their social circle is a signal to stay observant.
You might also see your teen pulling away from family activities they once enjoyed. They could start skipping family dinners, avoiding gatherings, or distancing themselves from siblings they were once close to. These changes may feel subtle at first but can grow into noticeable patterns.
Instead of criticizing their new friends, try starting a conversation with open-ended, nonjudgmental questions. Criticism often backfires, pushing your teen closer to the very relationships that concern you. Instead, show genuine curiosity about their social life and listen attentively. This approach builds trust, increasing the chances they’ll share important details with you when it matters most.
Finally, be mindful of personality changes tied to their new friendships. If your teen’s values, language, or behavior take a sharp turn after connecting with a new group, it could indicate they’re being influenced in ways that warrant concern. Keep an eye on these shifts as part of the broader patterns of change we’ve discussed.
5. Physical Signs and Appearance Changes
Physical changes can be a strong indicator of substance use in teens. While these signs may emerge gradually, paying close attention to shifts in your teen’s body language, appearance, and overall physical condition can reveal warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored.
One of the most noticeable signs involves changes in the eyes. Bloodshot or glazed eyes, unusually large or small pupils, or an unfocused gaze are common indicators. Different substances cause specific eye-related symptoms – marijuana often leads to red eyes and constricted pupils, while alcohol use may result in flushed cheeks and red eyes. If you notice your teen frequently using eye drops, it might be an attempt to hide these signs.
Grooming habits can also provide important clues. A sharp decline in personal hygiene or appearance – such as messy hair, unwashed clothes, or a generally unkempt look – may point to substance use. A teen who once took pride in their appearance might suddenly seem indifferent.
Weight changes are another red flag. Unexplained weight gain or loss, often accompanied by shifts in appetite like skipping meals or unusual eating patterns, can signal drug or alcohol use.
Pay attention to unusual smells on your teen’s breath, clothing, or body. The lingering scent of smoke, marijuana, or alcohol can sometimes be masked by chewing gum or mints, but these efforts to cover up odors could themselves be a sign.
Clumsiness and speech changes are also worth noting. Slurred speech, stumbling, or even rapid, pressured talking may indicate drug use. These speech and movement changes often stand out, especially if they’re inconsistent with your teen’s usual behavior.
Substance use can also cause dramatic energy shifts. Your teen might swing between hyperactivity and extreme fatigue or seem unusually sluggish and tired when they’re typically energetic. These energy fluctuations often don’t align with their normal routines or sleep patterns.
Certain physical markers may directly point to drug use. Frequent nosebleeds or a runny nose without allergies could suggest cocaine use. Burns on fingers or lips, sores around the mouth, or wearing long sleeves in hot weather to hide track marks are also concerning signs.
Other symptoms might include excessive sweating, shaky hands, a swollen or puffy face, or cold and clammy palms. In some cases, substance use may lead to more severe symptoms like frequent illnesses, vomiting, or even seizures.
The key is to recognize when these physical changes deviate from your teen’s usual patterns. While adolescence naturally brings its own set of changes, substance-related signs often appear suddenly and seem out of sync with normal development. When combined with behavioral changes, these physical symptoms can help paint a clearer picture of potential substance use.
6. Drug Items in Their Possession
Finding certain items in your teen’s room could point to possible substance use and might require a closer look. Here are some things to watch for:
- Smoking and Vaping Gear: Items like pipes, vaporizers, or e-cigarettes could be red flags, especially if it seems they’re being used for more than just nicotine.
- Prescription or Medication Issues: Be alert for prescription bottles that don’t belong to your teen, loose pills, or tools like pill crushers – these could hint at misuse or tampering.
- Tools for Drug Handling: Small scales, baggies, or other unexpected items might indicate involvement with substances.
- Digital Evidence: Encrypted messages or social media posts about acquiring substances can also signal drug use. However, context is important before jumping to conclusions.
If you’re still unsure, professional drug testing can provide clarity. Companies like 12PanelNow offer FDA-approved drug test kits, including cups and oral swabs with features like built-in temperature strips and leak-resistant designs, delivering 99% accuracy.
While no single item is definitive proof of drug use, finding several concerning items should encourage an open discussion with your teen. If needed, seek professional advice to better understand the situation.
7. Increased Need for Privacy
It’s natural for teens to crave independence and privacy – it’s part of growing up. They might want their own space to figure out who they are or choose not to share every detail of their lives with parents. That’s all perfectly normal. But when privacy turns into excessive secrecy, it could be a warning sign of something more serious, like substance abuse.
What does this look like? A teen using drugs may start pulling away from family activities they once enjoyed, like skipping family dinners or spending most of their time alone in their room. You might notice them sneaking around the house, avoiding eye contact, or vanishing for long stretches without explanation. Secretive phone behavior is another red flag – things like whispering during phone calls, quickly hiding their phone when you walk in, or stepping outside to take calls they used to answer openly. They might also lie about their plans, dodge simple questions about their day, frequently break curfew, or resist conversations about their behavior.
“More often than not, attempts to caution or correct this behavior are vehemently resisted as an unwanted intrusion and a violation of their privacy.”
- Shahid Ali, MD, Assistant Professor, Clinical Psychiatry, Medical Director, Detox Unit, Meharry Medical College
The key is to look for patterns. If your teen’s growing need for privacy comes alongside other warning signs – like physical changes, slipping grades, or a refusal to talk about new friends – it could point to something more serious than regular teenage independence.
If you’re genuinely worried, don’t let concerns about invading their privacy stop you from acting. Sometimes, keeping them safe means checking personal spaces like their room, phone, or digital devices. Striking the right balance between respecting their privacy and ensuring their safety is crucial.
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8. Missing Money or Items
If money or valuable possessions seem to vanish frequently, it might hint at underlying substance use issues. Sure, teens occasionally lose cash or borrow money for everyday reasons, but a consistent pattern of unexplained financial requests can be a warning sign. This behavior often ties in with other physical and emotional changes discussed earlier.
Teens struggling with drug use may urgently ask for money, and if turned down, they might resort to sneaking cash from wallets or purses. Beyond just money, you might notice valuable belongings like electronics, jewelry, or gaming gear disappearing – likely sold to fund their habit. Missing prescription medications could also signal misuse or even illegal sale.
While occasional financial mishaps are normal, repeated, unexplained losses or theft point to a deeper issue. If your teen becomes overly defensive or evasive when asked about missing items, especially in combination with other concerning behaviors, it’s time for an open and honest conversation. Keep a close eye on these financial patterns alongside other signs to better understand your teen’s overall well-being.
9. Changes in Eating and Sleeping
Substance use can throw a teen’s eating and sleeping habits completely off balance, as different substances affect the body in unique ways.
Appetite changes are one of the most noticeable shifts. Stimulants often suppress hunger, leading to skipped meals and noticeable weight loss. On the flip side, marijuana tends to have the opposite effect, increasing appetite and sometimes resulting in binge eating episodes.
Sleep patterns are another key area to watch. Sleep disruptions often go hand in hand with substance use. Stimulants may keep teens awake for long stretches, followed by periods of extended sleep to recover. Depressants, however, can cause excessive drowsiness or make someone fall asleep at inappropriate times.
Look out for signs like rapid weight fluctuations, dark circles under the eyes, or irritability tied to these changes in eating and sleeping.
When shifts in appetite and sleep are paired with other warning signs, they should not be ignored. If these changes persist for several weeks, it may signal a deeper issue that requires immediate attention.
10. Avoiding Questions or Getting Angry
When teens start using substances, their responses to questions often become defensive, angry, or evasive. This shift in behavior can be a strong indicator of underlying issues. Instead of calmly addressing concerns, they might lash out, accuse you of invading their privacy, or completely avoid the conversation.
For example, they might snap with, “You went through my stuff? That’s so unfair!” or try to deflect by pointing fingers, saying something like, “You’re no saint – you’ve done things too!” These reactions usually go beyond typical teenage defiance, showing a level of intensity that’s hard to ignore.
The key difference between normal teenage boundaries and substance-related defensiveness lies in how extreme and persistent the behavior becomes. While it’s natural for teens to crave privacy, substance use can amplify this need, often resulting in aggressive or secretive behavior. For instance, they might avoid eye contact, become unreasonably angry over simple questions, or shut down conversations altogether. You might also notice them guarding their phone like a vault or coming up with endless excuses about where they’ve been.
“It’s important to differentiate between normal teenage behavior and signs of addiction. While mood swings and a desire for independence are typical in teenagers, certain behavioral changes can indicate underlying issues related to substance use. Being able to discern these changes allows for timely intervention.” – Alliance Health Center
When dealing with this kind of defensiveness, it’s vital to approach the situation with patience and care. Even if they’re yelling or making accusations, stay calm and speak with concern rather than frustration. If they accuse you of snooping, shift the focus to their well-being: explain that your actions come from a place of love and concern for their safety.
Should they bring up your own past or current substance use, acknowledge it briefly and redirect the conversation back to their health. These discussions may need to happen more than once, but maintaining a calm and caring tone helps build trust. Over time, this approach can open the door to more meaningful conversations about their behavior and choices.
How to Talk to Your Teen About Drug Use
Once you’ve noticed potential warning signs, the next step is having an open and honest conversation with your teen. Talking about drug use might feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Studies suggest that short, frequent discussions are more effective than one long, serious talk. And remember – it’s never too late to start these important conversations.
Timing Matters
Pick a calm and private moment to talk. Do your homework beforehand by researching the substance in question using reliable, unbiased sources. If you’re unsure how to approach the subject, consider speaking with a trusted advisor or counselor for guidance.
Let your teen know you’d like to discuss something important and give them a say in when and where the conversation happens. This small gesture not only shows respect but also helps them feel more in control. When you begin, approach the discussion with curiosity, not judgment. Use open-ended questions to encourage dialogue.
“Consider beginning by asking a question like, ‘Tell me, what do you know about marijuana?'” – Sharon Levy, MD, MPH, Contributor, Harvard Health
Start by asking what they already know about drugs and alcohol or whether they’ve seen substance use among their peers. This can help you gauge their understanding without making them feel defensive. Setting a tone of mutual respect is key to a productive conversation.
Focus on Health and Safety
Make it clear that your main concern is their wellbeing, not punishment. As the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) advises:
“Tell your child you care about their health and success.”
Be specific about your expectations and rules. Vague advice like “be smart” or “make good decisions” can be misunderstood. Instead, encourage critical thinking by asking questions like:
“So you’ve heard that marijuana is pretty safe because it is natural. Do you think that is correct?” – Sharon Levy, MD, MPH, Contributor, Harvard Health
Throughout the conversation, listen as much as – or even more than – you talk. Reflective, nonjudgmental responses can make your teen feel heard and understood. If they admit to experimenting with substances, try to explore their reasons calmly and with genuine curiosity.
“Being curious about those reasons can help him feel less judged. It may also give you a window into your teen’s underlying struggles, help him develop insight into his own behavior, and point to problems that may need professional support.” – Sharon Levy, MD, MPH, Contributor, Harvard Health
Create a Safety Plan
Work together to establish a plan for tough situations. For example, you can agree on a “code word” or phrase they can use if they ever feel unsafe. Reassure them that they can ask for help – without fear of punishment – if they or someone else is in danger.
“Your child may worry about asking for your help for fear of getting in trouble, so make it clear and show them that if they or someone else are in danger, they can come to you for help. Offer them a safe ride home or arrange a ride from another trusted driver.” – NIH MedlinePlus Magazine
Share Family History if Relevant
If substance use disorders run in your family, it’s important to share this information. Framing it in terms of health risks rather than fearmongering can help your teen make more informed decisions.
These conversations will naturally evolve as your teen grows older, so be ready to adjust your approach over time. The numbers are concerning – an estimated 2.2 million people aged 12 to 17 had a substance use disorder in 2023, and nearly 40% of teens reported drinking alcohol in the past month. Despite this, parents remain one of the most influential factors in a teen’s life. Open, supportive communication can make a real difference.
If your teen admits to using substances, respond with empathy. Reach out to their healthcare provider or use resources like FindTreatment.gov or the SAMHSA National Helpline for guidance. Your understanding and support can help maintain their trust and encourage them to seek help if needed.
When to Consider Drug Testing
Drug testing can help confirm suspicions when multiple warning signs are present. While open communication should always be your first step, there are situations where testing becomes a practical tool for ensuring safety and clarity. This approach works best as part of a broader safety plan, complementing open dialogue.
When Testing May Be Necessary
If your teen is showing several warning signs at once – like unexplained missing money or significant, ongoing personality changes – drug testing might provide the clarity you need. Testing is also worth considering if your teen has admitted to using substances or participates in activities that require sobriety, such as driving or competitive sports.
Some parents incorporate drug testing into a safety agreement after discovering drug use. When approached as a health and safety measure, rather than a punishment, testing can help provide structure and accountability during recovery.
Options for At-Home Testing
At-home drug tests, such as those available from 12PanelNow, offer a convenient way for parents to get answers. These tests come in several forms:
- Multi-panel cups: Detect 5–28 substances with 99% accuracy.
- Oral swabs: Noninvasive and deliver results in minutes.
Both options are CLIA-waived and FDA-approved, with built-in temperature strips to ensure sample validity and leak-resistant designs. For parents concerned about specific substances, single drug test strips are also available for more targeted testing.
Timing and Considerations
The detection window for drugs can vary depending on the substance and the testing method. For example:
- Most drugs are detectable in urine for 1–3 days after use.
- Marijuana, especially in regular users, may remain detectable for weeks.
- Oral swabs typically detect substances used within the past 24–48 hours.
Timing your test is crucial to maintaining trust. Avoid testing immediately after a heated argument, as this can feel punitive. Instead, introduce it as part of a broader conversation about health, safety, and family expectations. This approach helps ensure the testing process supports your ongoing dialogue with your teen.
At-Home vs. Professional Testing
At-home tests provide quick results and privacy, giving families the ability to address concerns discreetly. However, for serious addiction concerns or legal matters, professional testing through healthcare providers or certified labs may be necessary. These professional tests offer legal protections and can be integrated into formal treatment plans.
Whether you choose at-home or professional testing, the goal remains the same: to create a supportive environment while prioritizing safety.
Quick Reference Guide
Here’s a streamlined guide to help you recognize physical signs that may suggest substance use.
| Warning Sign | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Eye Changes | Bloodshot, glazed, or watery eyes; unusually large or small pupils; trouble focusing; heavy eyelids |
| Appearance & Hygiene | Poor hygiene, neglected grooming, a generally disheveled look; puffiness or swelling in the face |
| Weight & Energy | Sudden weight fluctuations, appetite changes, noticeable drops in energy – or, at times, hyperactivity |
| Coordination & Movement | Clumsiness, impaired balance, stumbling, tremors, or shaky movements |
| Other Physical Indicators | Strange odors on breath, body, or clothes; frequent, unexplained nosebleeds; sores around the mouth; mysterious bruises |
Red Flag Combinations: Be particularly alert when several of these signs occur together. For instance, if someone has bloodshot eyes, poor coordination, and other unusual physical symptoms, it’s a strong signal to act promptly.
This guide is a helpful tool for noticing troubling patterns and determining when to take further steps.
Conclusion
Recognizing teen drug use involves paying attention to shifts in behavior, appearance, academic performance, and social habits that seem out of the ordinary for typical adolescence. The warning signs mentioned earlier often emerge gradually and can easily be mistaken for the ups and downs of teenage life.
Taking action early is especially important during these formative years when teens are more susceptible to peer influence and curiosity. Addressing potential substance use promptly can help prevent it from escalating into addiction and shield the developing brain from lasting damage. These signs provide a roadmap for parents to step in with care and purpose.
For parents, maintaining open and compassionate communication is key. Presenting a consistent and supportive approach as a team – whether between parents or caregivers – helps create a stable environment for your teen. Whether your child is experimenting or showing early signs of substance use, taking swift and thoughtful action can safeguard their health and future.
FAQs
How can I talk to my teen if I think they might be using drugs?
Starting a conversation with your teen about drug use isn’t easy, but approaching it with care and understanding can make all the difference. Find a quiet, private moment to talk and share your concerns in a calm, non-judgmental way. Let them know your words are coming from a place of love and a desire to keep them safe.
Take the time to truly listen to their side without cutting them off or making assumptions. While it’s important to be clear about your expectations and the risks associated with drug use, try not to come across as overly confrontational. Instead, focus on building trust and keeping communication open, so they feel comfortable turning to you. Your aim should be to support them, not to criticize or shame.
How can I tell if my teen’s behavior is normal or a sign of drug use?
It’s completely natural for teens to go through phases of mood swings, test limits, and crave independence – it’s all part of growing up. But sometimes, certain behaviors might signal something more concerning, like potential drug use. Keep an eye out for sudden, noticeable changes, such as pulling away from family and friends, unexplained irritability, slipping grades, visible changes in their appearance, or secretive habits like hiding objects or being dishonest about where they’ve been.
If you spot these behaviors, it’s important to handle the situation with care. Start by having an open and nonjudgmental conversation. This can give you insight into what your teen might be dealing with and help you decide if further steps, such as seeking professional guidance or considering drug testing tools, are needed.
How do I know if I should drug test my teen, and how can I bring it up without harming our relationship?
If you’ve observed unsettling changes in your teen’s behavior – like frequent mood swings, slipping grades, or a sudden shift in their friend group – it might be worth considering a drug test. However, before making any decisions, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional. They can help you determine if testing is the right step and guide you on how to approach it.
When bringing up the subject with your teen, prioritize trust and open communication. Share your concerns in a calm and straightforward manner, making it clear that your primary focus is their well-being. Including them in the discussion and decision-making process can ease any feelings of mistrust and help strengthen your connection.