Raising kids can be challenging and things tend to get even more complicated when they hit the teenage stage of life. Their bodies are changing, hormones are all out of whack and they’re faced with pressures that they’ve never had before. Today I’ve partnered with First Check to provide some tips and advice on teens & drugs for parents dealing with this new stage in their child’s life.
Once high school hits (sometimes even in middle school), things start to really change for our kids. They’re likely associating with a wider circle of people, feeling more pressure to fit in and really just trying to figure out who they are. It can be exciting, overwhelming and down right scary all at the same time – for both of you! Kids?they know are likely experimenting with things like sex, alcohol and drugs; and perhaps you’re at a loss of where to even begin.
Teens & Drugs
No parent wants their kid to be doing something that they’re not supposed to be, especially something that is bad for them, like drugs. But sadly, sometimes those things are out of your control. Here are some things that you can do.
Be Proactive
Rather than waiting until the damage is done, communicate with your teen. Ask them about their friends, what they’re into and whatever else you may be wondering about.?Be open and discuss drugs, alcohol and sex with them. It may be awkward at first, but it’s necessary and your teen will likely respect you for it. Talk about the dangers of illicit behavior, encourage them not to follow the crowd and to stand up to peer pressure. Maintain a trusting relationship with your teen so that they feel comfortable not only confiding in you, but coming to you if they have a problem.
What if you think your teen is doing drugs?
Well this is a tough one but I would suggest keeping the lines of communication open. Come right out and ask them if they’re doing drugs.
Take a drug test
If you think your teen is doing drugs and they’re not being truthful with you or not giving you an answer, one option is to have?them take a drug test. First Check has drug tests that are available for normal people like you and I to purchase. There are 5 different tests available including ones that test for marijuana, marijuana and cocaine, 4 drug, 7 drug and 12 drug. Each kit comes with easy to use instructions, a urine collection cup and test lid. That’s all that you will need to test and get results in your home. All First Check products give you results in 5 minutes with over 99% accuracy. A transportation box, label and mailing box are included in case you would like to ship the sample to a lab for confidential confirmatory testing.
With the 12 Drug test kit from First Check?, you can test for Marijuana, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Amphetamines, Ecstasy, Opiates. Phencyclidine, Benzodiazepines, Methadone, Barbiturates, Tricyclic Antidepressants and Oxycodone.
None of us wants to think our teen might be doing drugs but addiction is a scary thing and can be a lifelong struggle so you might rather be safe than sorry. If you need to talk to someone, please reach out for help. Click here to find a therapist near you.
Visit FirstCheckFamily.com to learn more or find it at your local pharmacy.
What’struggles are you having with your teen?
