Parents should not automatically assume that their child would never choose
to try or use drugs. Education is the key, and parents should educate themselves
on the possible warning signs that could indicate drug use by their child. Some
of these signs include:
Change in attitude including hostility, depression, and withdrawal
Loss of appetite
Loss of weight
Drop in grades
Changing friends
Lack of goals
Change in appearance, including poor hygiene
Rebelliousness
Doesn't bring friends home
Skipping school
Borrowing large amounts of money
Money and other items missing from home
Increased use of eye drops
Glassy eyes
Skin abrasions
Chemical odor on breath
Teenagers who use drugs typically exhibit many of these behaviors. You may
notice that your child's attitude begins to change. She may become withdrawn,
refusing to participate in family activities and spending most of her time in
her room when she is at home. She may also become volatile and have violent
outbursts when she disagrees with something you have said. She may lack
motivation and show complete apathy and disregard for her future. You may
discover that she lies easily and shows no concern or respect for you and your
spouse.
Parents should also pay attention to their child's physical appearance. Have
you noticed a change in his hygiene? Is he losing weight? Are his eyes glassy,
and does he use eye drops often? Have you noticed any unexplained skin
abrasions, which could indicate that he is using drugs intravenously?
What about your child's grades? Are they dropping? Does she seem to need more
and more money, but you don't know what she is using it for? Have you noticed
valuables or money missing from the house? Does your child become extremely
defensive and even hostile when you question her about these missing items?