Info for Parents

Parent Power

Kids who learn about the risks of drug abuse from their parents or caregivers are.

• 36% less likely to smoke marijuana
• 50% less likely to use inhalants
• 56% less likely to use cocaine
• 65% less likely to use LSD

 

What can a parent do?

• If possible, arrange to have children looked after and engaged from 3-5 p.m.
• Make sure children who are unattended for periods during the day feel your presence
• Get to know the parents of your child's friends
• Call parents whose home is to be used for a party
• Make it easy for your child to leave a place where substances are being used
• Set curfews and enforce them
• Encourage open dialogue with your children about their experiences

Signs and Symptoms of Potential Drug Use

Below is a list of potential warning signs of alcohol and/or drug use. Please keep in mind that this list is considered a tool for detection, not a diagnosis. It is recommended that you seek professional help if you are concerned about yourself or a loved one.

Physical Symptoms

• Loss of appetite, increase in appetite, any changes in eating habits, unexplained weight loss or gain.
• Slowed or staggering walk, poor physical coordination
• Inability to sleep, awake at unusual times, unusual laziness
• Red, watery eyes, pupils larger or smaller than usual, blank stare.
• Cold, sweaty palms, shaking hands.
• Puffy face, blushing or paleness.
• Smell of substance on breath, body or clothes.
• Extreme hyperactivity, excessive talkativeness.
• Runny nose, hacking cough.
• Needle marks on lower arm, leg or bottom of feet.
• Nausea, vomiting, or excessive sweating.
• Tremors or shakes of hands, feet, or head.
• Irregular heartbeat.

Behavioral/ Psychological Symptoms

• Attitude/personality change
• Paranoia
• Irritability or nervousness
• Secretive or suspicious behavior
• Loss of motivation
• Change in habits
• Change in activities
• Sudden oversensitivity or resentful behavior
• Loss of interest in hobbies, family, and friends
• Appearance has changed
• Excessive need for privacy

Performance

• Frequent mistakes
• Missed deadlines
• Minimal work effort
• Accidents
• Abnormal behavior
• Time management problems
• Poor judgment
• Inconsistent productivity
• Confusion
• Wide swings in morale

Helpful Books