Q. I think my teenager is using drugs.
What are the signs and symptoms of drug use? What can I do?

A. First, don’t deny your own intuitive feeling that something is wrong. Look for the following:

Behavioral changes:
• Change in priorities and peer groups.
• Lower grades.
• Skipping school.
• Unaccounted periods of time, including coming in later than usual at night.
• Finding drugs, drug paraphernalia or alcohol.

Stupid excuses:
• Parent finds drug paraphernalia in teen’s room, and teen says he is just keeping it for a friend.
• Parent finds empty alcohol bottles, and teen says she just likes the way they look.

Parents want to believe the best of their children and may feel guilty for not trusting them. Unfortunately, kids can be manipulative and deceitful. They know how to play into that ambivalent feeling and will even say, “If you keep accusing me and don’t believe me, I might as well be doing drugs.”

Problem is, sometimes parents see the warning signs, but don’t act.

Think of it this way: If your kid had a strange fever or a tumor, you would take him to the doctor or specialist even if he did not want to go. It’s important to treat drug abuse the same way.

It’s a fallacy to think:

– “If I just ignore it, it will go away.”
– “It’s just a phase.”
– “I experimented, and I turned out OK.”

The consequences of drug abuse are huge. A teenager’s normal development is disrupted. Some teens encounter significant legal and health problems.

Today’s illegal drugs are stronger than those of the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s and can cause greater health problems and more serious side effects.

What you can do:

• Have an assessment by a trained counselor who understands adolescent substance abuse. All EAP counselors have this certification.
• Participate in an appropriate treatment program and attend programs specifically for adolescents and their family members.
• Don’t be afraid of counseling and support for parents. The more that parents are involved, the greater chance their child will succeed.
• Test for drugs. Drug testing can confirm or deny your fears. Palmer Drug Abuse Program offers a free drug-abuse program, including drug testing.
• Call the Employee Assistance Program. It’s okay to not know what to do. That’s why we are here. For more information or to set appointments, call EAP, (713) 866-4242.

Rich Barrett, EAP manager

March 05
EAP counselors are hear for you