The initial step for any parent who thinks their teen might be using drugs is caution.
Here's some simple steps to finding out the truth:
Give Them The Benefit Of The Doubt
Unless a teen is obviously high with signs like, swaying, slurring, or laughing inappropriately, it's best to hang back and gather evidence.
Falsely accusing teens sends the message that they are not trustworthy.
If the occasion arises where drugs are available, the teen will automatically take the stand that his parents already think he's doing them... so why disappoint.
Explore Other Reasons For Behavior
While angry outburst, dropping grades, and hand tremors are all symptoms of drug use...they are also signs of blood sugar fluctuations, learning disabilities, and thyroid disease, all of which often develop in the teen years.
Make and appointment for a check up, then tell your teen that you are concerned about these symptoms on your way to the doctor's office.
If they are taking drugs... this will provide a chance for them to fess up...just in case the doctor wants to also do a drug test.
Look Beyond The Stereotypes
Teens often go through identity crises. Clothing, new attitudes, and defiance may seem like they're taking a trip down the wrong path... but for the average teen these are tests.
Remember your kid's toddlerhood when you struggled over peas and big kid undies, well...it's a known fact that unresolved control issues from the toddler years rear their defiant heads again in the teen years. These outbursts over control are not always drug related.
Kids on drugs withdraw from the family, and try to become an invisible household fixture. They don't want to draw enough attention to get caught...So if you do catch a glimpse of unsuitable clothes or a bad attitude it will be in passing as the teen slams the door in your face.
Call Out Sneekers
Kids on drugs and alcohol are constantly on guard to hide their symptoms and dishonesty.
If you catch your teen and his friends running through the back door to sneak up to his room... stop them, invite them over, and look for tell tale signs... red eyes, chemical odor to the breath, slurring.
If they are high you're gut will tell you, if not... they may be on their way to do some.
It's your home...do
If you still suspect drug use after ruling out other options, it's best to confront them about it away from an audience of friends where they will be compelled to rebel. Ask the friends to leave, then confront your teen.
Be Alert To Missing And Obvious Links
Many teens on drugs outright steal from their parents. Another technique is to ask for the money.
They may ask that you "trust" them with lunch money instead of prepay, or ask for cash instead of gifts for a birthday then the money supposedly meant for an iPod disappears.
They might also borrow from friends or their friend's parents "for movie money" ask that you help them pay off the debt. Ask questions.
Or they might have unexplained valuable items, indicating they might be dealing or selling sexual favors on line or in person.
Other Signs of Drug Use:
No regard to consequences concerning curfews, house rules, and family values.
Disrespect or fear of authorities whether the authority is present or the teen is just talking about them.
Running away, staying out without a call home, or they are secretive about their whereabouts.
What Can You Do?
Contact Teen Help Hotline for help and free video download... 1-800-637-0701
Visit Parents: The Antidrug for tips and photos of drug paraphernalia...
The best way to keep teens from taking drugs is to be aware, keep the lines of communication open, and be firm without being a tyrant.
Love them for life without enabling bad habits.
