Finding out your child may be using weed, pills or heroin is frightening. Panic, shouting or harsh punishment usually push the problem out of sight. A calm, steady approach works better.
Signs parents should not ignore
- Sudden changes in friends, mood, sleep or appetite
- Falling grades, skipping school or college, losing interest in hobbies
- Red eyes, strange smells, heavy use of eye drops, mints or perfume
- Money or valuables going missing, and secretive phone use
- Rolling papers, pipes, foil, small packets or syringes
- Irritability, lying and pulling away from the family
These signs can have other causes, such as stress or depression, so do not accuse. Start by talking.
If you find drugs or suspect use
- Stay calm. Choose a private time when they are sober.
- Start with care, not accusation: “I’m worried about you.”
- Listen first. Ask what they use, how often and why.
- Do not shame, threaten or humiliate. Set clear, fair rules you can actually enforce.
- Do not ignore it or hope it passes. Early help works best.
- Get a professional assessment from a doctor or addiction specialist, who can tell experimentation from dependence.
If it is heroin or injecting
Do not wait. This needs urgent medical help. Learn the signs of overdose and keep emergency numbers handy.
Look after yourself too
Parents often carry guilt and exhaustion. Counselling helps you stay steady and consistent. Our family counselling and intervention supports parents even before the child is ready. Call 9322232222 or book an appointment.