Information for Parents and Carers

Parents are offered informal sessions, usually taking place in their own homes. This maybe a one-off advice and information session or a number of more structured sessions looking at drug awareness, myths and misconceptions and signs and symptoms of drug misuse.

Every parent wants their child to be healthy and drug free, but many parents find it difficult to spot the symptoms of drug use. As you will see from some of the general symptoms listed below, many of these are commonly found in teenagers for totally innocent reasons. If you do find something which you think is linked to drugs then try not to panic. Take a look at the drug equipment section or phone Stash and discuss your concerns. Some signs and symptoms include:

• Drop in attendance or academic performance.
• Lack of interest in personal appearance
• Physical changes (e.g. runny nose, red eyes, coughing, wheezing, bruises, needle marks, large/small pupils).
• Withdrawal from family and friends.
• Seeking isolation, seeming depressed and feeling tired, unwilling to cooperate and open hostility.
• Stealing money or an increase in borrowing money.
• A change in friends that your child socialises with.
• Losing interest in hobbies or sports that used to be important.
• Smell of alcohol on the breath or sudden frequent use of breath mints.
• Change in eating and sleeping patterns.
• Watered down alcohol in the drinks cabinet.
• Evidence of drug paraphernalia such as rolling papers, butane lighters and pipes.
• Burning of incense.
• Sudden use of a strong perfume.
• Heightened secrecy about actions or possessions.
• Evidence of products for inhaling such as glue and aerosols.
• Small burn holes in their clothes.

Remember! Some of the above may just be symptoms of your child growing up.

If you are a parent/carer who is concerned about your own drug use, there are adult services in Stockton-on-tees that can support you.

CJIT - 01642 614567
Stimulant Service/Complex Needs
Service - 01642 613463

Drinkaware
Samuel House, 6 St Albans St, London, SW1Y 4SQ
www.drinkaware.co.uk

Remember! If you have ANY concerns about your child in connection to substance misuse then call Stash on 01642 607 028. Stash will support you every step of the way.