C.E.P.T.A.
The CAMPAIGN for EFFECTIVE PREVENTION and TREATMENT of ADDICTION.
5f. What to Do If . . . . YOUR Child IS Using Drugs.
(Reprinted from a recent newspaper article with the kind permission of Plume Publishing Limited)
By Kenneth Eckersley
If you believe your child is using drugs or solvents, it is vital that you stay calm and do not panic.
Your continuing support for your child at this time is important whatever the circumstances. Build your relationship by showing that you love and care for them. They're probably going through enough hell without you adding to it.
But you must take charge! From today onwards, make sure you know enough to be once more the "authority" in their life. Don't chastise or criticise. Instead - give them sound, informed guidance, help, understanding and affection.
But . . . If They are Clearly into Addiction, What Can You Do?
First and foremost: Ignore anyone who says they have "a drug" which will take your child off drugs. It just doesn't work, and is like using petrol to put out a fire. (Methadone is one example.)
In many cases you can likely handle the matter at home. Get your child's agreement to put him or her on a tight rein for just a few months. The agreement is that you and your child together are going to fight the problem together, and that it's going to mean some restrictions for everyone - e.g. you're going to have to spend much more time with them, and drop some of your own activities.
If you are a smoker or drinker, an important part of this agreement might be that YOU will also give up something. But whether you yourself agree to stop drinking or not, you should make sure there is no booze in the house.
A youngster coming off a drug is very likely to turn to alcohol, and if they do, it will lower their judgement and responsibility levels and make them more vulnerable to the drug craving you have all agreed to help the youngster beat. (Cigs can also stop withdrawal if they are coming off cannabis.)
Keep your offspring mainly at home or, when you go out, take them with you. Keep them well nourished and occupied on interesting activities - together. Especially keep them away from the people who introduced them to the substance or who supplied it. But, don't expect them - or even ask them - to "rat" on their friends.
Know where they are at all times and who they are with. Deliver them to and collect them from school or work. If they protest, remind them that they wanted to fight the drug - not fight dad and mum - and, that in insisting they stick to the agreed routine, you are only doing what you promised and are on their side. It's hard, it's called "tough love", but it works - so keep at it - and whatever happens, don't lose your patience or temper with them!
However, if you feel you can't handle it, or if you don't seem to make progress, then ring the number below, and talk things through with one of our staff members. There are certain vitamins and minerals that will help your youngster through the worst effects of ’cold turkey’. Everything is in confidence and you don't even have to give your name or that of your youngster. Just know - you can be helped, and that they can be rescued.
If you would like further confidential advice or information on effective drug prevention education for you and your family, phone or fax (01342) 811099.
© Copyright C.E..P.T.A. and E. Kenneth Eckersley, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 & 2005. All World Rights Reserved