Today teenagers have found new ways and means to get high; painkillers and other prescription drugs are being abused at record levels because they're easier to obtain than "street" or illegal drugs.
Causes
Children are more prone to abuse drugs if there is a family history of substance or alcohol abuse. But there are other causes such as depression, resistance to anyone in authority or insomnia and sluggishness. Peer pressure is also a main cause of drug abuse, whether prescription or street drugs. In order to fit in with a specific clique or group of his peers, he may indulge in drugs in an attempt to become popular.
Warning Signs
As with other drugs, there are various signs that can mean your child is abusing prescription drugs. Among these, look for a pronounced change in the teen's energy level; cycles of high, almost euphoric, activity and tremendous sadness or depression; and sudden weight loss. Your teen's eyes may show a difference in pupil dilation and a glassier gaze. She may also show a lack of concentration in conversation and exhibit insomnia.
Parents
Parents should keep all prescription drugs in a safe place, such as medicine cabinets, that is not accessible to teenagers. The parent should dispense the medication to teenagers, and only if and when needed. Also, they should have a serious talk with their teen about the dangers of prescription-drug abuse.
Parents should also monitor their teen's internet activity and become suspicious of any package that is sent to their child by someone whom he has met over the internet. If a package arrives for your child, it should be opened in your presence with the recipient teen present.
Schools
Schools can have their staff and teachers actively become aware of signs that their students are abusing prescription or other drugs. The schools can also hold classes or meetings directly addressing both the physical, familial and legal dangers of such abuse.
A way for schools to not only become involved but garner public support to combat prescription drug abuse is to hold a publicized meeting that includes medical experts, school representatives and parents. Teenagers who are recovering from abuse after drug-treatment programs should also be in attendance. The publicity will make the public more aware of the dangers of this type of drug abuse.
Tags: drug abuse, prescription drugs, abusing prescription, drugs there, other drugs, Parents should