All parents want their children to grow up to be healthy and happy people and productive members of society. Methamphetamine use is a sure way to destroy that simple dream. It's up to you to keep the dream alive.
As a parent or as a mentor to a child, you need to know the danger that meth poses to your youth, and how to protect your child or mentee from the devastating consequences of using meth, even one time.
If your discover that your child is exhibiting signs of meth or other drug use or might be vulnerable to trying meth, don't panic and don't turn a blind eye. Help is available.
Use the information on this card to get informed - then, get involved. Your child is counting on you!
As a parent or as a mentor to a child, you need to know the danger that meth poses to your youth, and how to protect your child or mentee from the devastating consequences of using meth, even one time.
If your discover that your child is exhibiting signs of meth or other drug use or might be vulnerable to trying meth, don't panic and don't turn a blind eye. Help is available.
Use the information on this card to get informed - then, get involved. Your child is counting on you!
Indications of meth use:
- Negative changes in school: increased absences, declining grades, dropping out of extracurricular activities
- Changes in friends
- Increased secrecy about possessions or activities
- Periods of hyperactivity, talkativeness and high energy followed by depression and deep sleep
- Noticeable weight loss
- Skin sores or scabs
- Use of incense, room deodorant, or perfume to hide smoke or chemical odors
- Subtle changes in conversations with friends - more secretive, using "coded" language
- Change in clothing choices, especially wearing clothes that reflect or promote the drug culture
- Increase in borrowing money
- Evidence of drug paraphernalia (pipes, rolling papers)
- Eye drops to mask bloodshot eyes or breath mints to cover odors
- Criminal activity - theft, gang activity, violence, vandalism
- Family management and conflict issues
Recommended prevention strategies:
- Express love and support to your child
- Set clear rules and limits for behavior
- Follow through with consequences when necessary
- Be present and visible
- Encourage and support your child's participation in structured youth and community activities
- Model responsible use of chemicals and legal drugs
- Make "family helping projects" a priority
- Encourage and reward achievement
- Limit exposure to TV and other mass media
- Emphasize the need to develop positive values
What to do if you suspect a problem:
- Open the lines of communication; talk to your child
- Be calm; allow plenty of time for your discussion
- If there seems to be a communication block, try talking while fixing dinner or doing yard work together; or get in the car and drive with your child
- Tell your child what you see and how you feel about it
- Be specific about what you have observed that causes concern
- Set clear ground rules for family drug use, and then enforce those rules
- Stop your own enabling behaviors
- Follow through with consequences - even if it disturbs your comfort zone
- Do not get mad or accuse your child of being stupid or embarrassing the family
- Try to connect with your child; avoid using "interrogation techniques"
- DO NOT isolate or blame yourself
- Get help!
Get informed, get help, and get involved. Your child's health and well-being are at stake.