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Stopping the Trip: Signs of Drug Use in Teens

Stopping the Trip: Signs of Drug Use in Teens 150 150 se_admin

Although many teens may imagine themselves being in a Seth Rogen movie when using drugs, the reality is far more bleak. By 12th grade, over a third of high schoolers will have tried illicit substances (). As a parent, it is important to carefully examine your child for signs of drug use before their problem turns into an addiction.

Recognizing the Signs of Drug Use

As much as the media glamorizes substance abuse, the one thing that is typically accurate in movies is the portrayal of the signs of drug use. These include poor hygiene and messy appearance, red eyes and face, burns on the fingertips or lips, or even track marks. If your child frequently breaks curfew, sneaks out, keeps their door locked, makes secret phone calls – or shows sudden changes in eating habits, sleep patterns, and friend groups, there is a possibility that drugs are behind the reason. A quick drop in school performance, as well as personality changes, can also be a result of substance abuse. 

Although marijuana – the most commonly used drug – typically has the telltale smell, the recent fad of smoking odorless dabs makes detection difficult. As such, paying attention to the secondary signs of drug use is extremely important. If you notice your child being lethargic or losing interest, it may prove worthwhile to dig deeper.

What to Do If You Suspect Signs of Drug Use

As a parent, it can be difficult to accept that your child has a drug problem. The first step to recovery, however, is to be open and non-judgmental. Staying calm and having an honest discussion with your child about the dangers of drug use and why you don’t approve can go a long way in helping solve the issue. By understanding what it is that caused your child to turn to drugs – peer pressure or stress, for instance – you can help eliminate the trigger. Also, if possible, try to think of fun alternatives to drugs – spending more time together doing enjoyable activities can replace your child’s desire for substances.

If your child’s drug problem has gotten out of hand, it may be time to consider professional help.

Solstice East can help

Solstice East, a residential treatment center for struggling teen girls ages 14-18, can help your daughter find success.

For more information about Solstice East, please call (855) 672-7058 today!

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Reefer Madness: Preventing Marijuana use in teens

Reefer Madness: Preventing Marijuana use in teens 150 150 se_admin

Many teenagers experiment with marijuana use. The amount of peer pressure from friends, and portrayal in the media can affect how a teenager decides whether to smoke marijuana or not. Parents play an extremely important role in educating their children about the associated risks of using drugs.

In the majority of the United States, buying and marijuana use is against the law. However, with teen marijuana use use at its highest in 30 years it is now more important than ever to raise the awareness to your teen about how to avoid peer pressure and help them educate themselves.

Parents and Prevention

The best way to aide your child in preventing drug use is talking with them in an honest and open way. The following are tips for how to discuss marijuana use with your child: 

  1. Ask your child what they have heard about marijuana use. Attentively listen and do not make any interruptions. It is important for children to express themselves freely, and feel safe when doing so. Avoid becoming angry, or making negative comments.
  2. Offer your child the risks and consequences of using illegal substances
  3. Ask your child to give examples of the effects of drug use to ensure that they understand what you have spoken about.

Identifying Marijuana Use

If you are unsure of how to spot signs of marijuana use, below are some of the common signs of marijuana use:

  • Dizziness
  • Acting silly for no reason
  • Hungrier than usual
  • Red eyes or use of eye drops
  • Increased irritability or grumpiness
  • Reduced motivation and lack of interest in usual activities
  • Trouble remembering things that just happened
  • A smell on clothes
  • Having pipes or rolling papers

Many teens think that they won’t end up with problems related to marijuana use, so it is important to begin discussing the risks with your child early and continue this discussion over time. Talking openly with your teen will help with prevention. If your child is already using, open communication about your child’s drug use is imperative.

If you feel that you and your family need more assistance, please call Solstice East today at 828-484-9946. The experts there are ready to help you find out if wilderness therapy is right for your family.

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