Video 5 - Ignoring the Big Stuff

If you suspect your child is using alcohol or drugs, do not look the other way. Even if it's "just" alcohol or marijuana, or even if it reminds you of your own youth, you must take action now before it becomes a bigger problem. The years when kids are between 13 and 18 years old are an essential time for you to stay involved. Watch for unexplained changes in your teen’s behavior, appearance, academic performance and friends. And remember, it's not just illegal drugs that are abused now. Prescription drugs and even cough medicines and household products are also in the mix.  If you find empty cough medicine packaging in your child’s trash or backpack, if bottles of medicine go missing from your cabinet, or if you find unfamiliar pills, pipes, rolling papers, or matches, your child could be abusing drugs. Take these signs seriously and get involved. This week take time to Safeguard all the medicines you have. Know which products are in your home and how much medication is in each package or bottle.

This is Dr Stem - Be Encouraged