Spring time is often drug and alcohol use time for many teenagers. Here ’s what parents need to know and do.

Talk with your teen.  Share with him or her this YouTube video.

Physical Signs and Symptoms of Chemical Use

Droopy eyelids
Tremors
Dry mouth
Small or large pupils
Pale or flush skin color
Odor of alcohol, marijuana, vomit, chemical, urine
Facial itching
Raspy voice
Warm body
Headaches
Poorly kept appearance
Perspiring
Drug paraphernalia, pills, small pill bottles, syringes, paint residue
Grinding teeth

Behavioral Sign of Chemical Use

Loss or change in positive peer group or friends
Personality changes
Attitude changes
Lack of attention and focus
Withdrawn from family and friends
Memory problems
Secretive behaviors
Unexplained wealth or material wealth
Mood swings
Numerous phone calls, instant messaging or text messages
Overreaction to criticism
Drop in grades and poor quality work effort
Inability to sleep or insomnia
Change in eating habits
Accident prone
Uncommon illness
Blaming
Sensitivity to noise

How Should A Parent Respond To Drug Use?

Begin to speak with your child before they enter stage one of chemical or drug use.  Begin to look for the physical and behavioral signs listed above.  Let your child know that you have a right to search their room, backpack and other areas of your home if you suspect drug use.  Do not be afraid to contact your school counselor and ask for help.  The school counselor may provide you with other steps to take which may include meeting with your child, speaking with your child’s teachers, school nurse and other school officials.  The school counselor can not help you if you keep your suspicions or information about your child’s chemical use a secret. 

There are also numerous chemical and drug use agencies that can provide you with additional help.  The school counselor can refer you to some of the best outside sources in your area.

What Do I Do If I Find Drugs in My Child’s Possession?

1) Talk to your child about it.  Stay calm.  Be honest.  Take turns talking.
2) Your child may say it belongs to a friend.  Say, “if it’s in your room or possession, it belongs to you.”
3) If you do not know what the drug is, a pharmacist or police officer may be able to tell you.
4) It’s important to have your child receive a chemical assessment to evaluate the situation. 
5) Contact a school counselor or e-mail ScottCounseling with other extenuating circumstances.

What do I do If My teen Come Home High Or Drunk?

1) You always have the option of contacting the police or bringing your child to detox to monitor their condition.
2) Bring your child in for a chemical assessment.

ANYTIME YOUR CHILD HAS A SERIOUS HEALTH CONDITION CAUSED BY A CHEMICAL OR DRUG, CALL 911. 

3)   Parents can purchase at home drug test (urine analysis) at many drug stores or order a kit online at: www.rapidcup.com.

Common Insurance Company and Non-Insurance Coverage Question

Insurance Coverage:

What chemical dependency assessment programs are considered “in network?”

What amount is covered by insurance?