Substance Abuse At Home

Young people sometimes experiment with drugs and/or alcohol. That is a definite fact and one which is particularly difficult for parents to face. While some experimental drug users will just try the drug and stop, some will graduate to more frequent use and often times more dangerous drugs. Many teens use drugs for years before their parents find out. The longer the drug use goes unnoticed, the more difficult and less effective subsequent treatment can be.

One of the most effective tools in early detection is a home testing kit. By assessing the warning signs your son or daughter may be exhibiting, our trained investigators can help you to determine if you should conduct home testing. Some of the warning signs that you can look for are:

A drop in grades
Poor achievement
Mood swings
Dishonesty regarding whereabouts
Early cigarette smoking
Parental defiance
Association with undesirable friends
Disappearance of money or possessions

These are only some of the clues that may serve to confirm your suspicions about your son or daughter’s possible drug use.

Additionally, symptoms of drug use vary with each drug. For example, red eyes, reduced concentration, drowsiness, or even excessive laughter may be indicators of Marijuana use. Dilated pupils, loss of appetite, confusion, and/or paranoia may be associated with a more serious drug such as Methamphetamines.

Different types of drugs by classification

Date rape/Club drugs

  • Ecstasy
  • Ketamine
  • Rohypnol, aka: “Roofies’
  • GHB
  • Chloral Hydrate

Depressants

  • Barbiturates
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Quaaludes

Hallucinogens

  • DMT
  • LSD
  • PCP
  • Peyote
  • Psilocybin

Inhalants

  • Gases
  • Glues
  • Aerosols

Marijuana

Narcotics

  • Codeine
  • Heroin
  • Morphine
  • Opium

Prescription Drugs

Steroids

Stimulants

  • Amphetamines
  • Caffeine
  • Cocaine
  • Diet Pills
  • Methamphetamines
  • Ritalin

Although consulting a Drug Abuse Counselor may be a beneficial option for you, allow us to assist you in the early detection. In-home drug testing can give a drug user more of a reason not to use. It can also help parents and therapists to know if intervention is working. Also, drug paraphernalia can vary widely depending on which type of drug is used. Unless parents are trained in drug and drug paraphernalia recognition, important clues may be overlooked. Call us today and take an active role in your child’s well being.