Michael Jackson's death - warning to parents about teen drug abuse

June 30, 6:57 AMDetroit Substance Abuse ExaminerMichael Velardo

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Your teen is at risk more than ever for drug abuse

With Michael Jackson's death still fresh in everyone's mind, it is important to remember that there are many people in America with the same kind of problems he is alleged to have had. Although Michael's notoriety has extreme draw power, we can't forget about those 2500 teens who wake up every morning and get high for the first time on prescription drugs, some eventually ending up dead.

That is why, in this 2nd part series, I have short-listed some behaviors you can look for in your teen to help you determine whether he/she is using drugs or not. Although not an exhaustive list, it is a primer that will give you at least some knowledge of what you are dealing with. I've also included links where you can find extensive information on the topic as well as join in a community of parents with the same concerns. You can even subscribe to newsletters, emails that will provide you with tips, and information about teen drug abuse.

Please remember that exibiting these behaviors may not necessarilly mean your teen is using, but don't use that to go into a state of denial. In fact, your teen may be in denial about drug use. The following information was taken from Partnership for a Drug Free America.

Your teen may be using if you notice any of these behaviors:

Behavioral Issues

• A difference in family relationships or change in friends
• Unable to focus
• Edgy/hyperactive
• Withdrawn/likes to be alone
• Overly tired/sleeps alot
• Hostile/angry more often
• Starts lying/hiding things
• Loud and obnoxious behavior
• Slurred speech
• Pinpoint pupils (physical) (narcotic use)
• Dilated pupils (physical) (may have taken acid, speed)
• Nodding out
• Extremes in energy followed by excessive sleep
• Unusually clumsy, stumbling around

If you notice any of these changes, there is a good chance that your teen is using drugs and/or alcohol. There may be a good reason that the behavior is happening, but probably not.

For an exhaustive list of behaviors, including personal appearance issues, health issues, school.work issues, personal habit issues, home and/or car related issues, vist a Time to Act, by a Partnership for a Drug Free America. There, you will find an exhaustive list of behaviors, both physical and psychological that will enlighten, and arm you with the information you need to identify a drug problem, and more importantly, what to do if you discover one.

Please look over this site, as it contains a lot of information you can access for substance abuse problems, educational information, etc.