Drug Prevention A Presentation to Parents of Leo Hayes Students

Drug Prevention National Anti-Drug Strategy On-line resource for parents

Observe your Kids The strongest factor in decreasing the chances of teens using drugs is their connectedness to their family. Be aware of what they’re doing, who they’re hanging out with, and what’s happening in their lives.

Understanding Youth In growing physically and psychologically, teens may seek out new experiences and test limits. They may also experience a wide range of emotions. Most often, drug use is not an isolated act, it’s something that fits into this range of behaviours.

Maintain Communication Convey concerns without being judgemental. Stay interested in their activities without appearing to intrude on their lives. Encourage them to express themselves. Set clear, firm, rational expectations. Make your love for them clear and unconditional

Keep in mind that, while extremes of behaviour may be normal among adolescents, continued or worsening negative patterns may be signs that something more serious is at stake.

Signs and Symptoms of Drug Use These are not easy to detect because they often overlap with very common teenage behaviours such as changes in sleeping habits, changes in hobbies, and changes in mood or attitudes.

What to Watch for Changes in friends Negative changes in school work Increased secrecy about possessions/activities Use of incense/room deodorant More coded/secretive language in conversations with friends

New fascination with clothes that depict drug use Increase in borrowing money Evidence of drug paraphernalia such as pipes or rolling papers Bottles of eye drops which may be used to mask bloodshot eyes Missing prescription drugs

Take Action The most powerful tool you have is communication. Make communication a two-way street and an every day activity that isn’t cumbersome. Learn what’s happening in their world through quick, informal chats in the car, at breakfast, etc

If your intuition is telling you that your teenager is using drugs, talk directly with him or her about it. Encourage open and honest discussion. Seek resources such as your family physician, school counselor, etc.

Create a Drug Free Environment Stay engaged with your teenager’s life Listen to your teenager Keep track of what they are doing and when Get to know your teen’s friends and their parents If a party is planned, call the parents for details Make sure your kid’s good behaviour is rewarded

If your teenage child is going out, ask them questions. Who are they going to be with? What will they be doing? How long will they be out for? And, where are they going to be? Talk to your kids about the importance of honest communication. Tell them you expect them to tell the truth.

The Critical Time of Day 3 PM to 6 PM, after school before parents return home. This is often when drug use happens. Try to have a positive influence present (an adult or trusted friends) present at this time. or see that they’re engaged in extra- curricular activities such as sports.

Set Boundaries Set expectations. Be consistent and clear that you will not allow any illicit drug use in your house. Household rules are more likely to be effective if your teenager is involved in determining them. Support these rules with consequences that are appropriate for your individual child.

Tips for Talking With Your Teenager 1.Inform your teen you have something you’d like to discuss with them. 2.Avoid accusations. Remember some experimentation is normal – you and your teen need to discuss where to draw the line. 3.Know the facts of the drug you plan to discuss BEFORE talking to your teen.

4.Provide your teen with impartial literature. 5.Ask your teen about THEIR concerns regarding drugs and address those issues. 6.Understand your fears regarding your teen. Try not to let irrational fears create undue anxiety during your talk. 7.Honesty, courage, and faith will guide your conversation. 8.Think carefully before rifling through your child’s journal, s, etc.

9.Make your position clear when it comes to drugs. Don’t assume that your child knows where you stand. 10. Having this discussion with a qualified youth/addiction therapist can be helpful. If your teen isn’t interested, you may still benefit in meeting with a youth therapist for support and suggestions. 11. Ideally, you’ve been having these discussions for years but it’s never too late to start.

What to do if your Teenager is Using Drugs Anger, sadness, fear, and confusion are natural reactions but don’t let emotions guide your decisions. Communicate with all family members to acknowledge the problem. Take time to assess the problem. Get help from a teacher, counselor, doctor, priest,etc.

QUESTIONS?