Tips for Parents: Warning Signs - Is Your Child Using Drugs?

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Written by Milan Njegovan, Ph.D.
Drugs and alcohol are robbing our children of their potential and in some instances, their lives. Adolescent addiction is a very serious problem. As parents, we need to be aware of the pitfalls that our children face when traversing through adolescence; a difficult and confusing period in their lives at best.

Teenagers have a tendency to view themselves as indestructible and many have the attitude that “it will never happen to me.” Today, more so than ever our children are exposed to a broad array of addictive substances. Our children need to realize that addiction is an equal opportunity effect. It does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender, religion, family, social standing, or financial status (to name a few). It can and does happen to ‘any one.’

The stresses of peer pressure, identity formation and the difficulties experienced in adolescence can become overwhelming to some of our children. Drug and alcohol use can then become extremely enticing as a means of avoiding these pressures and coping. If you are suspicious that your child may be using drugs or alcohol, do not ignore the warning signs.

Some signs that your child may be using drugs or alcohol include:

•  Withdrawal from or keeping secrets from family and friends

•  Loss of interest in activities that used to be important

•  Problems with schoolwork, such as slipping grades

•  Skipping school

•  Changes in friendships, such as hanging out only with questionable friends

•  Stealing or selling belongings

•  Mood swings

•  Changes in eating habits, including weight loss

•  Violent outbursts

•  Frequent use of eye drops

•  Drug paraphernalia; such as syringes, heated spoons, empty pen tubes, rolling papers, razor blades, straws

•  Slurred speech

•  Repeatedly breaking curfew

•  Glassy eyes, red eyes

•  Lack of motivation

•  Paranoia

•  Repetitious behavior

•  Nervous physical activity, such as scratching

•  Dizziness

•  Confusion

•  Problems with memory

•  Depression

•  ‘Sneaky’ behavior

•  Neglected appearance/hygiene

•  Excessively ‘happy’ for no apparent reason

•  Increased sleep

If any of these signs apply to your child, do not ignore them! Seek professional help to determine whether your child is using drugs or alcohol. There is help out there. You may be saving your child’s life.

For more information about the ADAPT Centre, call the Bosco Homes Central Intake Coordinator at: (780) 440-0708 ext. 259 ‘Dr. Milan’ is the Addictions Clinician at Bosco Homes.