Police may try their best to arrest the dealers but we as parents have to do our part too. We need to recognize the signs that could indicate our kids are using drugs:
- Sudden change of friends
- Needing more disposable cash
- Clothes and items gone missing
- Poor personal hygiene
- Mood swings
- Increased sleeping
- Grades deteriorating
- Unusual paraphernalia like punctured pop cans, toilet paper rolls which are hidden in the bedroom.
It is unlikely that our teens will give the names of the dealers for fear of retribution. If you are expecting the police to solve the problem by arresting the dealers, this can be ineffective because there's always another dealer waiting to sell drugs to your kids. As parents, we have to recognize there is a problem and take the first step. If you suspect your teen is on drugs, it's hard to know what to do. Not every child will react the in same way. Some could get violent or some may refuse to discuss it or some may deny it.
Deciding how to get your teen off drugs is something you cannot do alone. Seek help! There are resources available through the school, church, local agencies and community programs. Not only will your child need rehabilitation, you will need support too!
Some children will experiment with soft drugs. It's just normal curiosity. Let's hope they learn very early that they have to say no. If you are a mother of younger children, it's never too early to gather information on drug abuse so you can start discussing it with your child.
Just remember, don't feel responsible for your teen's drug problem because you are working outside the home. As soon as he/she is at school or hanging out, they are away from parental supervision. Just keep your eyes open and look for the warning signs.
Go To Page: 1 2
