Identifying when your child is on drugs

Statistics shows that one in every three South African children has experimented drugs by the time they reach matric.

If you suspect that your child might be taking drugs, look out for symptoms like these:-

  • A drop in grades
  • Behaviour problems in school
  • Losing interest in activities the child once enjoyed
  • Dropping old friends and the sudden influence of a new crowd
  • Sudden mood changes
  • Appearing listless or hung over
  • Increased forgetfulness
  • Increased secretiveness
  • Withdrawal from the family
  • More combativeness at home
  • Red eyes
  • Weight loss
  • Not sleeping well
  • Fatigue or hyperactivity
  • Personality changes -- a child who was once outgoing is now withdrawn.

If you find out that your child is on drugs

If you suspect that your child is on drugs, don't panic because you are not alone. Millions of parents around the world are also experiencing the same problem. You need to confront the problem. Talk to your child about the dangers of drugs and if you suspect that something is happening then you need to act immediately. Never deny the problem; rather ask for help. Remember that many parents have been in your shoes. Find them for support - talk to your family or go to the support groups in or near your area.

Talking about drugs can be an awkward topic for most parents. It is important for you to take a firm stand when talking to your children about the dangers of drugs. Tell your child that life is all about choices and whatever choice they make will have consequences to be faced.  As a parent you have a great influence on your child's life. Therefore, it is very important that you deal with this subject in a controlled manner.  By doing so you are giving your child an opportunity to talk to you openly. You should also remember that your love and caring involvement can inspire your child to make good choices. 

Do not feel sorry for a child who is experimenting with drugs, and just let them off with a warning. A drug dependency will not disappear without some serious help.  Look for help; take the child to a rehabilitation centre, and at least arrange for some counseling, even if you cannot book them in for a stay.

General Information

We know that we love our children unconditionally. This can lead us, as parents, to make some silly decisions which can have serious consequences.  Be careful; don't give your child large amounts of money for no valid reason. Pocket money should be minimal and everything else should be earned.  That way, your child will not have enough ready money to sustain a drug habit, and it will be easier for you to pick up on any problems.

If your child is not taking drugs but has similar symptoms as those mentioned above, be aware that your child might be facing some other difficulties in life. As a parent you need to help your child get through those problems.

If you or your child is addicted to drugs, or you know someone in this situation, please make use of the information below:-

United Christians Against Narcotics helps children with drug problems and their parents. Call them in Cape Town 021 976 2856, Johannesburg 082 902 3360 or Pretoria 084 665 4431.

You can also visit or contact the drug counseling centres:-

1. 1 Roman Road
    Observatory
    Tel:- 021 447 8026

 2. Unit 12, Woolworths Arcade
     Symphony Walk
     Mitchell's plain
     Tel:- 021 391 0216

For more information on the centre's go to Capegateway 

Sources:-

Last Updated: 28 January 2011