Substance abuse is the misuse of drugs and other products for non-medical
reasons.
Substance abuse can lead to dependence. Your mind or body starts to need
the substance even though it is hurting you.
Children as young as 5 years old can become involved with drugs.
Drug use can lead to many problems, such as problems with school, friends
and family, arrest, violence, unplanned or unprotected sex, and driving accidents.
Who is at risk?
Young people use drugs for many reasons.
They may use drugs to help them fit in with a group of friends at school.
Drug use may be a sign that your child feels bad about himself.
Children with low grades are more likely to use drugs.
Children who are often not supervised (watched by an adult) are more likely
to use drugs.
Children with behavior problems or who do not like rules are more likely
to use drugs.
Children with friends, brothers and sisters, or parents who use drugs are
more likely to use drugs.
What might be used? Your child might use the following drugs or substances. Other drugs not
listed here might also be a risk.
Alcohol: In most U.S. states, it
is illegal for children under the age of 21 to drink alcohol. Moderate use
is defined as no more than 1 drink a day for women and 2 drinks a day for
men.
Cocaine: Also called "crack" or "freebase." Cocaine can be snorted
through the nose, injected directly in the blood stream (using a needle),
or smoked. Cocaine use is never safe. It can lead to addiction and in some
cases, death upon the first use.
Marijuana: Also called "pot," "weed," "chronic," and "herb." Usually
smoked as a cigarette or "joint," or in a pipe or bong.
Nicotine: Found in cigarettes and chewing tobacco. It is illegal
in most states for children under age 18 to use tobacco. Smoking and chewing
can lead to cancer. Nicotine is highly addictive.
Inhalants: Inhalant abuse is becoming more and more common in children.
It is sometimes called "huffing." It works by sniffing products found in homes
and schools to get "high." Some things used could be glues, nail polish remover,
paint thinner, spray paint, lighter fluid, gasoline, household cleaners, and
whipping cream (spray can kind). Sniffing damages the brain, liver, heart,
kidneys, and can lead to death. The following could be signs of abuse: strange
smell on breath or clothes; slurred speech; looking drunk or dizzy; paint
on the face, fingers, or clothes; red eyes and runny nose; spots or sores
around the mouth; loss of appetite; nausea; and restlessness.
What are the signs of substance abuse? Watch for these behaviors in your child and other signs around your home:
Withdrawn, depressed.
Doesn't follow rules.
Hangs out with new friends.
Appearance has changed.
Lost interest in old activities.
Eating and sleeping habits have changed.
Relationship to family has changed.
Has headaches, nosebleeds, and other health problems when not otherwise
ill.
Smells of chemicals or drugs.
Larger amounts of household products are used than is usual for cleaning.
Items used with drugs are found such as pipes, rolled papers, medicine bottles,
cans of spray products, or syringes (needles).
These may be signs of drug abuse or another problem. Is it possible that your
child is depressed or has an eating disorder?
How can I help prevent substance abuse?
Spend time with your child.
Set a good example. Do not make drug use seem casual or easy.
Teach your child about drugs starting when they are young. Explain how it
affects his health and lifestyle. Talk at a level he can understand. Give
facts.
Talk to your child about things he sees on TV, in movies, in magazines,
and at school.
Make sure your child knows he can come to you for help or with questions.
Ask other adults in your child's life for input and support if you suspect
your child is abusing drugs.
Talk to your child. Is there something going on that might explain his behavior
(such as problems at school or with friends)?
Do not blame yourself if your child is using drugs. Focus on getting your
child help instead of on placing blame.
Be clear and consistent. Tell your child you do not allow drug use and explain
what will happen if he uses drugs (such as losing permission to use a car
or having to be home earlier).
Follow through with consequences, even if your child promises not to do
it again.
Keep in mind that children who use drugs often deny it. Follow-up often
if you are still concerned.
Call your doctor if you are concerned.
When should I call the doctor?
Call the doctor if you have questions or concerns about your child's health.
Call the doctor to learn more about drug abuse.
Quick Answers
Substance abuse is the misuse of drugs and other products for non-medical
reasons.
Children may use drugs to help them fit in with a group of friends at school.
Substances abused include alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, nicotine, inhalants,
and other drugs.
Watch for signs of substance abuse. Your child may be withdrawn or depressed,
refuse to follow rules, hang out with new friends, change his appearance,
or no longer take part in his old activities.
Teach your child about drugs starting when he is young. Explain how it affects
his health and lifestyle. Talk at a level he can understand. Give facts.
Call the doctor to learn more about drug abuse.
References
National Institute on Drug Abuse. Cocaine Abuse and Addiction. (cited 14
November 2001). Available from: URL: http://www.nida.nih.gov/ResearchReports/Cocaine/cocaine3.html#short
National Institute on Drug Abuse. Marijuana. (cited 14 November 2001). Available
from: URL: http://www.nida.nih.gov/Infofax/marijuana.html
National Institute on Drug Abuse. Nicotine Addiction. (cited 14 November
2001). Available from: URL: http://www.nida.nih.gov/researchreports/nicotine/nicotine3.html#medical
Rutherford, K M.D. What to do if Your Kid is Using Drugs. KidsHealth. October
2001 (14 November 2001). Available from: URL: http://www.kidshealth.org/PageManager.jsp?dn=KidsHealth&lic=1&ps=107&cat_id=&article_set=22657
Virtual Naval Hospital. Aerosol Abuse Can Take Your Breath Away. 7 August
1998 (cited 14 November 2001). Available from: URL: http://www.vnh.org/NHB/HW9831AerosolAbuse.html
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