Quite frequently we have contact from persons concerned about drugs and alcohol abuse within their home environment. More often than not, it is parents and guardians who are concerned about children in their care using drugs. We always suggest that if you have concerns about drugs or alcohol abuse within the home environment, you should first speak directly with help & advice groups set up especially to combat this growing problem. We would recommend FRANK (for drugs) and Alcohol Concern (for alcohol) – details of these websites can be found in the "Links & References" section of our website. These organisations can help put in place or put you in contact with the necessary support you will need when tackling such an issue.

We are also asked "what are some of the less obvious signs of drug use". You may find the following things useful to look out for when suspecting if someone is using drugs. (NOTE: someone displaying one or more of these attributes or symptoms is not necessarily using drugs):

If you are suspicious your child may be using drugs, don't ignore the warning signs. Children seldom grasp the concepts of addiction. Most view themselves as impervious to peril. For some teens, the stress of adolescence and peer pressure is overwhelming. Drugs often become an enticing escape from their real world. Early detection of a problem is CRITICAL...Don't let curiosity turn into a destructive addiction.

Signs of Drug Use

• Neglected appearance/hygiene
• Poor self image
• Grades dropping
• Violent outbursts at home
• Frequent use of Eye Drops
• Unexplained Weight Loss
• Drug Paraphernalia
• Slurred speech
• Curfew Violations
• Running away
• Skin abrasions or Sores
• Hostility towards family members
• Chemical breath
• Glassy eyes / Dilated (Bigger) or very Constricted (Smaller) Pupils
• Red eyes
• Valuables Missing
• Possessing unexplained valuables
• Stealing/borrowing money
• Change in friends
• Depression
• Withdrawal
• Apathy
• Reckless Behaviour
• No Concern about future
• Defiles Family Values
• Disrespectful to parents
• Lying/Deception
• Sneaky behaviour
• Disregards Consequences
• Loss of Interest in healthy activities
• Verbally abusive
• Manipulative/Self-Centred
• Lack of Motivation
• Truancy

If many of these signs seem applicable to your child, and their behaviour, do not wait to act.

The best way to verify your concerns is to communicate with the person(s) involved. Do this calmly and do not panic. If you can, ask them if they are taking drugs. Try not to be confrontational. This may be all that is required. Remember, for most young people taking illegal drugs is not a normal part of life. Our free leaflets available to download from our links and references page may help to educate you about the different drugs most commonly used in the UK.

However, the only way to be certain if someone is using drugs is via "sample screening". ScreenSafe UK can advise you of the best methods of detection for each drug type and how best to conduct a screening process in the home. We can also provide you with the necessary bespoke equipment in an easy to use kit form, with step by step instructions, which is both reliable and accurate. We can also assist you in further analysing the results if required. Please contact us via telephone 08450 505590, or e-mail enquiries@screensafeuk.co.uk where we will be happy to discuss your exact requirements in the strictest of confidence.