By Sandy Thompson

The children in our communities have ended their summer adventures and have gone back to school. While there, they will reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Some children will also be active in their hobbies and/or jobs. Regardless of their interests, some children will also be exposed to the idea of using alcohol and other drugs for the first time.

Being a pre-teen or teenager is a tough job in our fast-paced world. With the advances in technology they are living in a world of instant gratification and, in a sense, have more social pressure than any other generation thus far. Some of our children will succumb to the social pressures, including experimenting with substances. For some kids it will be just that—experimentation. Others may find that they like how using substances makes them temporarily “check out” of their busy minds and lives. The following are some signs and symptoms that your child may be experimenting with substances:

• Presence of drugs or drug paraphernalia in their room or car
• Sudden use of eye drops, room deodorizers, or incense
• Slurred speech
• Noticeable changes in school performance and attendance
• Sudden change in friends
• Secretiveness about friends or activities
• Sudden change in family relations
• Noticeable change in personality and mood
• Deterioration in physical appearance
• Involvement in legal problems or delinquent behavior
• Unusual financial problems, repeated pawning or selling of personal items, or  money missing from family members
• Extreme change in dress, language, opinions, or behavior

If you suspect that your child is using substances, ask them about it! Remind them what your expectations are regarding underage alcohol use, misuse of prescription medications, and illegal drug use. Be diligent in being a positive role model for your child by making wise choices about your own use of alcohol, prescription medications, and illegal drugs. Not intervening now may lead to your child moving from experimentation to excessive use of substances.

A few things parents can do to increase your supervision of your child’s time and activities may include:

• Set tighter limits with clear consequences and follow through.
• Have productive conversations with your child: LISTEN, remain calm (even if what you hear is upsetting), and share your concerns.
• Closely monitor your child’s behavior and activities.
• Create more opportunities for your child to participate in family activities.
• Make an effort to get to know your children’s friends and their parents.
• Create a safe and inviting space for your child and their friends to “hang out” at your home.
• Get outside help and support if necessary.

Another great tip: You and your child can create a “secret code” that can be used if your child finds  herself in a scary situation. It can be as easy as your child texting you “call me.” Once you call they can easily then tell their friends that there is a family emergency and you are coming to pick them up.   

Sandy Thompson

Sandy Thompson is a ND Licensed Addiction Coun- selor, Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR) trained recovery coach, and owner of Path to Pono, specializing in business consulting and Family Recovery Coaching. She has a passion for helping people. Sandy enjoys reading, the Pacific Ocean, and German food.