Which of the following is a physical sign of drug and alcohol dependency in youth?

The identification of irregular sleeping patterns as a physical sign of drug and alcohol dependency in youth is supported by the understanding of how substance use can disrupt normal physiological processes. Drugs and alcohol can significantly alter sleep cycles, leading to issues such as insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, or other disturbances in routine sleeping patterns. These disruptions are often a direct result of the body’s adjustment to the presence of substances, which can interfere with the natural sleep-wake cycle and overall sleep quality.

In contrast, increased social activity, improved academic performance, and enhanced creativity are not typically associated with dependency on drugs or alcohol. In fact, substance use can often lead to withdrawal from social interactions, declining academic performance due to impaired cognitive function, and a lack of motivation, which diminishes creativity instead of enhancing it. Thus, identifying irregular sleeping patterns serves as a critical indicator for recognizing potential dependency issues in young individuals.