Look for behaviors like these:

» Apathy

“Apathy” is a lack of feeling, interest, or concern. Many marijuana users stop taking care of themselves or taking care of business the way they used to. They may also let other things in their lives slide, because they just don’t care anymore.

Of course, people who are depressed may feel apathetic, even if they aren’t using marijuana or other drugs. Apathy is just one possible sign of amotivational syndrome from marijuana use.

» Loss of Ambition and Motivation

The classic sign of amotivational syndrome is withdrawing from or giving up on activities and goals that used to be important to you. If your friend seems to give up, suspect marijuana or other drugs. Still, remember that other problems could also be the cause of his or her behavior.

» Lethargy

“Lethargy” is abnormal drowsiness, laziness, or sluggishness. If your friend suddenly starts sleeping a lot or being drowsy a lot, he or she could have amotivational syndrome. It’s definitely something to talk about.

Other causes for sudden lethargy include depression, different medical conditions, or even a major growth spurt! Remember to talk it out with your friend and show him or her that you care.

» Anxiety

Marijuana users often feel anxiety (nervousness, uneasiness) when they have been smoking pot. Users with amotivational syndrome may carry that anxiety over between uses. It becomes “chronic” (ongoing).

There are many reasons a person could be experiencing an increase in anxiety. Listen to what your friend has to say. You could be a big help in finding him or her some relief.

» Cynical Attitude

Someone with a “cynical” attitude may continually find fault with people and things around her. He may be negative. Cynical people tend to believe that other people only care about themselves.

People may adopt a cynical attitude on purpose, or as a phase in development, or because they have low self-esteem, or for some other reason. They also may develop cynicism because of amotivational syndrome.

» Mood Swings

Like any drug, marijuana alters the way your brain works. The “high” of marijuana use lasts for an hour or two, but other effects may last up to 24 hours after use. Users’ moods may swing wildly. They may feel cheerful when they are on the drug. Later, when it wears off, users may feel extra cranky. They may use the drug again to get back to the cheerful mood. Before long, some users are trapped on an emotional roller coaster.

When your friend is in one of those jolly moods, find out what’s been getting to him. If you know he uses marijuana or other drugs, suggest that cutting out use could make his emotions smooth out again.

» Impulsive Behavior

To be “impulsive” means to act on your desires or emotions without thinking first what the consequences might be. Impulsive behavior can occur in people with amotivational syndrome, who may not feel normal self-control.

Is your friend acting impulsively because marijuana use has thrown him or her off balance? Maybe. Ask a few questions, and support your friend in getting back to normal however you can.

» Boredom

Forget what you may have heard about pot being fun. Plenty of people who smoke pot end up discouraged and bored with everything.

» Rebellious Behavior

Part of being a teenager is feeling rebellious. Most teens act out a little now and then. Sometimes bad behavior gets to be a pattern. That’s when friends need to worry.

Amotivational syndrome is one cause of rebellious behavior. Do what you can to get to the bottom of your friend’s self-destructive acts before he or she really gets in trouble.

» Depression

Amotivational syndrome can make marijuana users depressed. They may seem sad or low. They may avoid people or have a hard time enjoying others’ company. Many depressed people either sleep too little or sleep too much.There are many causes for depression, including heredity. The only way to learn the cause of your friend’s depression is to have a serious, caring discussion.

» Restlessness

Restlessness is another possible symptom of amotivational syndrome. Even if users want to relax, they may feel anxious and uneasy much of the time.