SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Substance abuse can correlate to any need a person may not be getting. It is especially, higher in adolescents. When a adolescent is performing such behavior, it is important to consider:

*Does he/she not have enough parental supervision?

*Is there a lack of communication at home?

*Are there frequent family conflict?

*Have rules been established?

HOW DO I KNOW IF A TEEN IS AFFECTED?

1. Signs of any psychological distress

2. perceives substance as not being harmful

3. becomes impulsive

4. dramatic changes in appearance, friends or physical health

The Signs are not limited to above, however, it is common to see these behaviors and should not be avoided.

What can I do to prevent or decrease use of substances?

*Teach children about drug use and it’s affect.

*spend quality time with teens, sets good examples

*Be clear, with message you want to give.