6. How can i tell if my child is on drugs?

No yardstick, a combination of signs:

• Telling lies.
• Stealing.
• New friends - sometimes older.
• Keeping late hours.
• Problems at school - drop in grades. Truancy.
• Loss of interest in work, school, sport and hobbies.
• Lack of concentration, memory loss, blackouts, hallucinations.
• Tiredness - abnormally sleepy or drowsy.
• Continuous coughs and chest infections - sniffles.
• Secrecy about activities, whereabouts and friends.
• Cravings for sweet things. Weight / appetite loss. Fatigue.
• Sensitive eyes, runny nose, sores and burns.
• Keeping arms covered.
• Rash around mouth.
• Chain smoking.
• Burns around mouth.
• Radical change in behaviour and personality.
• Mood swings. Paranoia.
• Unusual smells - odours on breath and clothes.

What can i do?

• Don't panic. Respond in a calm and caring way.
• Remain in charge as parents.
• Confrontation will bring denial.
• Not when stoned - wait until they are down off "high".
• Listening is a key area. Ask him / her about feelings. What is going on in their lives.
• School: any problem areas?
• Confront with evidence if possible.
• Quietly search bedroom, schoolbag without his / her knowledge. Markers, gas lighters, aerosols etc.
• Make an appointment with school principle. Ask if they have noticed a problem. Seek support - schools share a responsibility in the students.
• Don't blame.
• Don't allow yourself to be manipulated e.g. "I'll stop if you don't tell Dad, school etc."
• Lay down reasonable and consistent rules for behaviour. Coming home at night, friends etc.
• Involve siblings and don't neglect them or yourself.
• If in doubt seek help.

WARNING: You may need to impose a curfew and accompany to / from school.

Drugs are illiegal because they are dangerous - They are not dangerous because they are illegal.