- Chronic dishonesty (lying, stealing, cheating). Trouble with the police.
- Changes in friends, evasiveness in talking about new ones.
- Possession of large amounts of money.
- Increasing and inappropriate anger, hostility, irritability, secretiveness.
- Reduced motivation, energy, self-discipline, self-esteem.
- Diminished interest in extracurricular activities and hobbies.
Parents
Recommendation #3:
Be knowledgeable about drugs and signs of drug use. When symptoms are observed, respond promptly.
Parents are in the best position to recognize early signs of drug use in their children. In order to prepare themselves, they should:
- Learn about the extent of the drug problem in their community and in their children's schools.
- Be able to recognize signs of drug use.
- Meet with parents of their children's friends or classmates about the drug problem at their school. Establish a means of sharing information to determine which children are using drugs and who is supplying them.
Parents who suspect their children are using drugs often must deal with their own emotions of anger, resentment, and guilt. Frequently they deny the evidence and postpone confronting their children. Yet the earlier a drug problem is found and faced, the less difficult it is to overcome. If parents suspect their children are using drugs, they should:
- Devise a plan of action. Consult with school officials and other parents.
- Discuss their suspicions with their children in a calm, objective manner. Do not confront a child while he is under the influence of drugs.
- Impose disciplinary measures that help remove the child from those circumstances where drug use might occur.
- Seek advice and assistance from drug treatment professionals and from a parent group. (For further information, consult the resources section, pages 59-73.)
WHAT SCHOOLS CAN DO