According to a survey by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 22.9 percent of high school seniors admitted to using drugs at least once in the month prior to the survey. 6.5 percent of eighth graders and 17 percent of tenth graders also admitted to getting wasted. Here are some signs that your child may be doping up.
1. Red, Puffy Eyes
Red eye, especially if it’s a regular occurrence, can be an indicator of marijuana use. Keep in mind, however, that red eyes can also indicate an injury to the eye or even allergies. For a better idea if your child is using marihuana, look for a change in pupil size along with red or puffy eyes. Marijuana often also causes the pupils to be either smaller or larger than normal.
2. Changes in Physical Appearance
Websites that show before and after pictures of meth users have popularized the belief that certain drugs can destroy a user’s good looks. Fortunately there are more subtle signs that you can look for: yellowed teeth, a sudden increase in acne, hair loss, and unusually rapid breathing can all indicate drug use. Be extremely wary of complaints about dry mouth. This is one of the most common symptoms of marijuana use .
3. Change in Personality and Mental Health
Many drugs cause a sudden change in mental health. These changes can range from short term, in the case of marijuana, to long term or even permanent in the case of “hardcore” drugs like LSD and meth. In particular, look for paranoia, inability to accurately estimate the amount of time spent on an activity, disorganized or irrational thinking and anxiety. Keep in mind that these symptoms are also symptoms of non-drug-related mental illness.
4. Weird Smells
The odor of cigarette smoke is well-known, but many drugs, including marijuana and cocaine, also leave detectable odors on clothes and furniture when smoked. Marijuana has a distinct odor, similar to the smell of burning leaves, and cocaine has been described as having a “sweet” smell. It is also often described as smelling like burnt plastic. While meth is composed of many volatile chemicals, it does not have a smell when smoked. Note, however, that meth often does cause chronic bad breath. The smell is often described as “chemical” and highly unpleasant.
There are many other different signs that you will be able to notice if your kid starts using drugs and other things. Just talk to your kid often and be their friend, their lives can be stressful so its important to be reasonable and helpful when talking to them in order to help them out. Love your kids and they will love you back!