Drug use is a big concern for parents. If you are a parent and think that your child might be on drugs, here are some common signs that could possibly indicate drug use. However, it’s important to remember that children might exhibit some of these signs but they are caused by the normal stress adolescents go through.
One physical sign that could indicate drug use is a change in eating habits. Is your child eating more? Less? Does he have an unexplained weight loss? Also, does your child have a hard time getting to sleep? Is she up at unusual times of the night? What do his eyes look like? Are they red and watery? Are her pupils larger or smaller than normal? Does she often sit with a blank stare on her face? Does she have a runny nose and a hacking cough and yet doesn’t have a fever or any other symptoms of having a cold or the flu? Do her hands and feet have tremors? Does her head shake?
In addition to physical signs, there are behavioral signs that could indicate your child is taking drugs. Has there been an overall personality or attitude change without any cause? (Example: severe depression without something like a death in the family.) Has she dropped her old friends and now hangs out with new ones? Have her grades dropped significantly? Is she late for school or does she skip school? Does she have a difficult time paying attention? Is she moody, irritable, and resentful?
If your child develops some of these signs, talk to your child. Also, seek professional guidance so you will know how best to handle the situation.