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It's important for you to know that many young people experiment with
some sort of drug; it's part of growing up. But most don't become dependent.
In fact, the majority of young people cope very well without drugs in
this stressful time in their lives.
Although illegal drugs receive the most publicity, alcohol is much
more likely to be the drug kids try first.
Here are some signs that may indicate your kid has a problem.
You notice:
- Your kid shows a sudden change in behaviour, a change in appearance,
or a change in attitude to you or other family members.
- Your kid may become more secretive, or less helpful at home.
- School grades drop, or you find money missing.
- Your kid has a new group of friends, or doesn't bring friends home
any more.
These could be warnings that your daughter or son is involved with
drugs. But remember, adolescence is naturally a time for great change;
there may be other causes for these changes. Try not to jump to conclusions.
What do you mean, don't panic?
Guilt, fear, and anger are natural reactions when you suspect your
kid is on drugs. But wait. Calm down before discussing your concerns
with your child. Approach drug use the same way you would approach any
other issue with your child. If you aren't sure about what to do, find
help in your community.
(See back page for resources.)
My kid doesn't listen to me.
Listening is a two-way street. Are you listening to your kid? Are you
paying attention to what she's saying? Lecturing an adolescent is seldom
effective.
How serious is it?
Find out what you're dealing with -- the type of drug or drugs being
used, and the extent and frequency of use.
What if my kid denies using drugs?
Don't turn it into a confrontation. Leave the discussion to another
time. Show you have confidence in your child. Praising him when he does
things well can improve his self-esteem.
Why my kid?
Drug use can affect any family. It doesn't mean you have failed as
a parent.
Are my own actions affecting my kid's behaviour?
Although you have let your child know that you are opposed to drug
use, your own use of alcohol, cigarettes, or pills may be sending mixed
messages from you as a role model.
With both parents working, my kid has a lot of free time after school.
Encourage her to get involved in after-school activities. When you
are at home, spend time with your child, perhaps watching television
programs she likes to watch. At times like these, the topic of drugs
may come up more naturally.
I don't know anything about drugs.
Parents who know about drugs -- how they're used, what their effects
are, and what the law is -- are both more confident and more believable
as information sources for kids.
You can find out. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health has a
confidential 24-hour Information Line. The number in Toronto is (416)
595-6111. From outside Toronto call toll-free 1-800-463-6273.
Where can I get outside help?
You may feel most comfortable discussing the situation with your family
physician or a public health nurse. Most communities have parent support
groups or professional counsellors at family service associations. Your
local office of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health can give
you facts and advice.
For more information on addiction and mental health issues, or a copy
of this brochure, please contact the Centre for Addiction and Mental
Health's 24-hour Information Line:
Ontario toll-free: 1-800-463-6273
Toronto: 416-595-6111
To order multiple copies, or otherCentre resource materials, please
contact:
Marketing and Sales Services
Tel.: 1-800-661-1111 or
Toronto: 416-595-6059
E-mail: marketing@camh.net
To make a donation, please contact:
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Foundation
Tel.: 416-979-6909
E-mail: foundation@camh.net
A World Health Organization Centre of Excellence
Affiliated with the University of Toronto
Disponible
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Copyright ©1980, 1991, 1999, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
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