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GENERAL INFORMATION:
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Teenagers and DrugsGeneral Information The best time to prevent drug abuse is before it begins. For parents, however, it may be very difficult to learn much about the potential for drug use among their children. It is critical that parents learn to talk to their children and develop good listening skills. What is not being said, however, may be even more revealing than what is reported. Teenagers who use drugs are often unhappy, especially lonely and anxious, although they are not eager to talk about their problems. Yet, many of them want their parents' understanding. Pay attention to what evidence you are offered. Do you know your children's newest friends? The pressure of peers cannot be exaggerated during adolescence. Studies generally indicate that the approval of peers is often decisive in a teenager's decision to use drugs. How can you know definitely whether your youngster is using drugs? In lieu of an admission or direct evidence of drug use (such as "high"), there are signs that may indicate abuse. Keep in mind, however, that these clues are not definitive signs but only possible indications that something is troubling your youngster. School Many children may grow to dislike school at some point, but the child who suddenly shows an active dislike of school and looks for an excuse to stay home may be in trouble. Contact school authorities and especially the child's teachers: does your son's or daughter's official attendance record match what you know about his or her sick days? What about missed classes? An unexplained pattern of tardiness is also telling. Another change that is a matter of concern is a student whose grades are generally A or B who suddenly begins to fail courses or receives only minimal passing grades and expresses general indifference toward school performance. Again, it is a sudden change that is most likely to be a significant sign. Other causes include temper tantrums, unexpected displays of anger over relatively small matters, or the onset of discipline problems, both in and out of school. Physical Health Most healthy youngsters have sufficient stamina to see them through their busy lives. Many sleep long hours during weekends and vacations. However, listlessness and apathy are not common characteristics of teenagers. Clothing Despite the varied and changing dress codes of young people, appearance is important to adolescents. Thus, it can be a significant warning sign if your youngster suddenly shows little interest in his or her clothing. Personal Behavior Teenagers enjoy their privacy and often will go to great lengths to protect it. However, exaggerated efforts to bar parents from going to their bedrooms or knowing where they go with their friends can be a signal. Unexplained and lengthy stays in the bathroom for the sake of privacy cannot be ignored if other behavioral changes are observed. If your teenage child suddenly makes requests for more money without a reasonable explanation for its use, it may be for the purchase of drugs. Other sudden and unexplained changes may also be signs: one example is a school athlete who stops participating in his or her favorite sport for no apparent reason. Adolescents need to feel that there is an open line of communication with their parents in which they can risk sensitive disclosure without the fear of being censured. During adolescence, children find it difficult to share their concerns with their parents. Many young people choose peers as their only confidants. Even in the face of your child's reluctance to share, continue to express an interest in listening to the experiences of your children. Most children want their family relationships to be marked by understanding and forgiveness. In these circumstances, even if drug abuse had begun, your child must believe that help and understanding will always be available.
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