Alcohol, drugs, psychotropic substances are harmful to the health of a teenager. If you suspect your child is using something, you need to act.
Alcohol and drugs: what's safe for teens
There is no safe drinking level for children under the age of 18 because their brains and bodies are still developing and the use of drugs such as cannabis, ecstasy and cocaine is absolutely unacceptable! But if your child regularly uses or misuses illegal substances, or feels like they cannot have a good time without it, this is a very serious problem.
Warning signs
It is not always easy to tell if a young person has a problem. Signs such as mood swings, outbursts of anger, changes in dress, friends and interests may indicate problems, but they are also a normal part of adolescence. Here are other warning signs that might mean you need to take action.
School and social life
- study worse or skip school
- uses a secret or "coded" language when communicating with friends
- has become more secretive in his affairs or hides where he is going
- isolates itself more than usual
- spends a lot of time with new friends
- wears a variety of clothing or jewelry, especially those with drug symbols or attributes.
Behavior
- uncharacteristic changes in mood
- changes with sleep (insomnia, high activity, or trouble waking up)
- started using incense or air fresheners to hide the smell of smoke or other substances.
Health and hygiene
- the appearance of acne that is more "angry" than usual
- started using mouthwash or peppermint.
Money
- asks for more money than usual
- sells property or steals money or other items from your home
- has more money than usual for no apparent reason.
Unusual items
If you find any of the following items in your child, it is best to talk to your child about them while trying to keep an open mind:
- items from the addict's arsenal, such as needles, tubes, roll paper, or small plastic bags with zippers
- eye drop bottles - these can be used to mask bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils
Talking to the child
If you notice any of the signs listed above or find things that bother you, start by talking to your child. It won't be easy, but it's important for your child's mental and physical health that you start a conversation. Conversation and active listening are the first steps towards recognizing that the problem is serious and something needs to be done about it. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Plan ahead
Before talking to your child, find out more information related to the problem. Studying will prepare you well to help your child and can help you stay as calm as possible.
Pick the right time
It is important to keep an open mind and listen calmly and hear your child's story. This can be tricky and you may have to start several times before you find a moment that works for both of you. If a child is intoxicated, or if you are angry and agitated, communication is unlikely to work. Try to pick a time when you are ready and your child is sober.
Maintain a positive attitude
If you are calm and positive, your child is more likely to receive adequate assessment and information. Blaming, lecturing, or criticizing are more likely to force your child to shut down and even lead to an argument.
Focus on behavior
If you are concerned about your child's behavior, try focusing on behavior rather than alcohol and drugs. For example, your child may behave aggressively, yell, or lie. You might say something like, "I noticed that you recently started behaving aggressively at home. Can we talk about this?" Try to stay calm and choose your words carefully.
Once you've talked to your child and you have an idea of the severity of the problem, you can find out about the specific drugs your child is using. Note that drug newsletters usually give worst-case scenarios, so try not to panic or make assumptions until you know more. You can offer help, but you cannot "cure" your child. Your child may not be ready to admit their problems, and they may not want your help. If your child is not ready or interested, you cannot force.
What can you do right away?
You will have many questions. The answers will be unique to your family and will come from figuring out what you and your family need, but you can already take action:
- remove alcohol from your home
- adjust and carefully track your child's pocket money.
Who can help?
There are many resources and support options for you, your child, and your family, and you can start by talking to your healthcare provider, school counselor, teacher, or other school staff. Family members, friends, and other adults close to your child can help you and your child.
It is important to remember that there is no safe level of alcohol and drug use for children under 18!
