Common signs
Many parents say they're surprised when they discover their child has an alcohol or drug problem, but there are usually signs of trouble, like the following, if you look for them:
Problems with school look for irregular attendance in some school classes and poor performance in several subjects. She may also start to skip the extracurricular activities that she used to enjoy.
Health problems He may have changed his sleep habits, have lost weight, appear run down, or develop more colds or cases of flu. He could have bloodshot eyes, appear listless, and speak in a flat monotone.
Behaviour changes A formerly outgoing kid might become withdrawn or very moody, spend less time with the family, and possibly even shut down communication. He may have new friends or have become part of a different group. He may ask you for money but avoid discussing what he needs it for, or you might find that money or articles are missing from the house. He may be secretive rather than just want privacy.
Legal troubles Many kids in trouble with the law also have trouble with drugs. Many teens who get drunk or use illegal drugs do so only once or a few times. But continued excessive use of alcohol or drugs is an indication of a serious ongoing problem, and you might consider seeking help from a professional.
A drug briefing
Alcohol This drug of choice for teens poses the primary risk of their overindulging, which leads to impaired judgment. If they are of driving age, this impaired judgment causes car accidents and all the attendant problems. Alcohol is also a major factor in other kinds of preventable injuries and in sexual assault.
Amphetamines These stimulants are sometimes called pep pills, bennies, or uppers. Users develop a sense of wellbeing and become hyper alert, which makes it difficult for them to sleep. When high, they lose their appetite. Chronic users are more prone to sickness. One Canadian study showed that violence was the leading cause of amphetamine-related deaths.
Barbiturates Also known as "downers," these are powerful depressants that slow down the central nervous system, and are sometimes prescribed to relieve anxiety. By themselves, they give an intoxicating effect, but are particularly dangerous when combined with alcohol.
Cannabis This term includes marijuana, hashish, and hashish oil. As with alcohol, it can be dangerous for anyone using cannabis to drive because reaction time is slowed. There is also the possibility of lung damage after long-term use. As well, some people may develop a psychological dependence on cannabis.
Cocaine Made from the leaves of the coca bush, cocaine is a stimulant. Large doses can lead to bizarre or violent behaviour. Long-term use can lead to strong psychological dependence and depression.
LSD (LySergic Acid Diethylamide) The most powerful known hallucinogen, LSD significantly alters one's perceptions in unpredictable ways. It can cause terrifying hallucinations, even among experienced users who've had no previous bad experiences.
Rohypnol Known as a "roofie" or by other street names, rohypnol is a sleeping pill more powerful than any other. Combined with alcohol, it produces disinhibition and amnesia. When slipped into a person's drink, it is difficult to detect because it's tasteless, colourless, and odourless. These factors mean that it has been associated with date rape. Tests of a person's urine sample can detect rohypnol up to three days after the person may have consumed it, so a teen who has a suspicion that she was drugged and assaulted should be tested as soon as possible.
