How to Detect Drug Abuse in Your Child

It is essential that parents be able to recognize early signs of drug use in their children. Being knowledgeable about drugs and signs of drug use is the best way to "detect" a problem early so that a prompt response is effective. The following ten signs, not all of which are conclusive evidence of drug use, can be helpful in identifying a drug abuser:

1. Pipes, rolling papers, small decongestant bottles, eye drops, small butane torches, tubes of cement and airplane glue, and small mirrors and razors.

2. Possession of drugs themselves or evidence of drugs, such as: peculiar plants or butts, seeds or leaves in ashtrays or clothing pockets, pills, white powder, small glass vials, hypodermic needles, peculiar odors on clothes or the smell of incense or other "cover-up" scents.

3. Behavior problems, such as: chronic dishonesty (lying, stealing and cheating); trouble with the police; breaking curfew and sneaking out of the house late at night; increasing and inappropriate anger, hostility, irritability, and secretiveness; reduced motivation, energy and self-discipline.

4. Change in friendship groups hanging out with a "new crowd," avoiding old friends, or evasiveness in talking about new friends.

5. Dramatic changes in school performance, such as: uncompleted assignments; increased absenteeism or tardiness; marked drop in grades- not just from C's to F's, but from A's to B's and C's; and disciplinary problems.

6. Signs of physical deterioration which may indicate drug use including: poor physical coordination, chronic runny nose, red or bloodshot eyes, dilated pupils, chronic hacking cough, regular headaches, rashes around the nose and mouth, fatigue, menstrual irregularities, memory lapses, short attention span, slurred or incoherent speech, and indifference to hygiene or grooming.

7. Increasing identification with the drug culture, including: sudden appearance of drug-related magazines, drug-related conversations and jokes on clothing, and hostility in discussing drugs.

8. Change in eating habits - eating extremes such as loss of appetite, increased appetite, or craving of sweets.

9. Disappearance of money or expensive items from the home - radios, TVs, video-game players, expensive clothing. Money missing from parent's wallet and/or purse.

10. Diminished interest in extracurricular activities and hobbies - sports, music and other activities previously enjoyed.

While the first two signs listed above may provide direct evidence of drug use, the other signs are not conclusive in themselves. However, a combination of several may mean that your child not only is around alcohol or other drugs, but is actually using them. As parents, you should look for an overall pattern of behavior before confronting your child.

It may be that your child is not using drugs but having other problems at school or in the family. If you are uncertain, seek help. Have your child examined by your family doctor or at a local clinic to rule out illness or other problems.