STEP #1) Noticing and Observing (Not denying)
Trust in your parental intuition. If you think something is "off" or "not right", you are probably correct!
Some signs of abuse:
- Changing friends.
- Acting unusually sluggish, or acting unusually hyper.
- Short on money, or all of the sudden having lots of money.
- School performance is slipping for no known reason.
- Secretive behaviors.
- Moody. A bad attitude that is constant.
- Evidence of cigarette smoking or other drugs.
STEP #2) Speak Up and Get Support for Yourself
The next step is to not let feelings of shame or fear paralyze you into silence or isolation. This is not a time to be alone. If you isolate yourself, things will only get worse. Speaking up about your concerns allows you deal with your concerns. Most kids will deny that anything is the matter. You can not follow their lead at a time like this. If you do, things will only continue and most likely get worse. Feel free to contact me for a confidential discussion about your concerns at 359-5200 X5233, or email pswiatek@rhnet.org. You could also talk with your child's pediatrician. Usually they will have your child come in for a visit and help you put a plan of action in place. You can also talk with the parents of your child's friends. Some parents may not want to talk about potential issues with drugs, but oftentimes other parents will share your concerns and will be appreciative that you broke the silence. The only thing stronger than a teen peer group is a united group of their parents.
STEP #3) Creating a Plan of Action
Every situation is unique. Coming up with a plan of action that will meet your particular needs is important. Action plans can range from talking with your child at home about your observations to getting your child in for a chemical use evaluation at a local clinic. I can also be of assistance as you are trying to figure out what action steps to take. The more severe the problem, the more help is needed. The earlier you deal with these kind of problems, the better. Unaddressed, the problem will only get worse.
Don't Wait. Start Now. Ask Questions. Start Talking.
