Identifying possible signs of drug use may help prevent further use.
Possible signs:
Change in moods (more irritable, secretive, withdrawn, overly sensitive,
inappropriately angry)
Less responsible (late coming home, late for school or class, involved in
more accidents than usual, dishonest)
Changing friends or changing lifestyles (new interests, unexplained
increases in cash)
Difficult to communicate with (refuses to discuss changes in behavior,
becomes defensive if asked about drug use)
Shows physical deterioration (memory losses, difficulty in concentration,
loss of weight, unhealthy appearance)
Kids may turn to drugs for one or more of these reasons:
For fun
Remember that you set the example - your child will compare your actions
with your words and be guided accordingly. If you choose to drink, never
mix drinking with driving or any other activity requiring skill and
coordination. If you smoke, it would help you and your child if you could
quit. And don't use illegal drugs. Period!
To do what friends are doing
To fit in
To challenge authority
To get through the day
To escape pain in their lives
Out of boredom
Curiosity
To take risks
Unaware of the effects
Because a role model did it