Alarming Signs of Mental Health and Substance Use in Children: Dear Parents, If you are experiencing some unreasonable recent changes in your children’s behavior. This may be sign of certain mental health condition or substance use. Being a parent you can play a crucial role in supporting your children’s mental health awareness and drug use awareness. By being open, attentive, and informed, parents can create a safe and nurturing environment where their children feel comfortable discussing their emotions and concerns. They can educate their children about the importance of mental health, help them to understand the signs and symptoms of different mental health issues and educate them about substance use and its repercussion. Let’s understand what are the alarming Signs of Mental Health and Substance Use in Children.
What if your child is involved in certain kind of substance use?
How to spot or identify potential drug use in children and some common symptoms associated with different types of substance intoxication. However, it is important to understand that these symptoms can vary among individuals, and a professional assessment is always recommended if you suspect drug use in a child. Here are some signs and symptoms associated with tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, stimulant drugs, LSD and opioids intoxication. Different substance are having different alarming signs.
Alarming Signs of Mental Health and Substance Use in Children: Different substance are having different alarming signs -:
1. Tobacco Intoxication Symptoms (smoking or chewing tobacco)
- Smell of smoke on clothing or breath
- Yellowed teeth or fingers
- Frequent coughing
- Increased irritability or restlessness
- Decreased appetite
- Withdrawal symptoms when not smoking, such as irritability or difficulty concentrating
-
Alcohol Intoxication Symptoms
- Slurred speech and impaired coordination
- Impaired judgment or decision-making ability
- Strong odor of alcohol on breath or clothing
- Bloodshot or glassy eyes
- Changes in mood or behavior, including aggression or irritability
- Nausea or vomiting
-
Cannabis Intoxication Symptoms (Charas, Ganja, Hashish or any form of THC)
- Bloodshot or red eyes
- Increased heart rate
- Dry mouth
- Distorted sense of time
- Euphoria or relaxed mood
- Increased appetite (“the munchies”)
- Impaired memory or difficulty concentrating
-
Stimulant Drug Intoxication Symptoms (Cocaine or methamphetamines)
- Increased energy and alertness
- Restlessness or hyperactivity
- Decreased appetite or weight loss
- Dilated pupils
- Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
- Agitation or aggressive behavior
- Excessive sweating
-
LSD Intoxication Symptoms (Magic mushroom’s or lysergic acid diethylamide in any form)
- Hallucinations or distorted perception
- Altered sense of time or self-awareness
- Changes in mood or emotions
- Dilated pupils
- Sweating or chills
- Flashbacks or persistent visual disturbances
- Heightened sensory experiences
-
Opioid Intoxication Symptoms (Smack, Brown Sugar, Powder, Chita or Heroin)
- Constricted or pinpoint pupils
- Drowsiness or nodding off
- Slurred speech or impaired coordination
- Nausea, vomiting, or constipation
- Weight loss or changes in appetite
- Frequent flu-like symptoms (withdrawal symptoms)
- Sudden changes in mood, behavior, or social circles
- Increased secrecy or dishonesty
- Loss of interest in usual activities or hobbies
- Neglecting responsibilities or problems at school or work
- Impaired judgment or decision-making skills
- Agitation, irritability, or mood swings
- Neglect of personal hygiene or grooming habits
- Track marks or scars from injecting opioids (though not always present)
- Wearing long sleeves or pants even in warm weather to hide potential injection sites
- Increased isolation or withdrawal from friends and family
- Frequent association with a new group of friends who exhibit risky behavior
- Changes in relationships with loved ones, conflicts, or strained interactions
It’s important to understand that these signs and symptoms are not definitive proof of substance use and could also be associated with other issues or medical conditions. If you suspect your child may be using any substance, it is important to talk to them and seek professional help from mental healthcare professional psychologist or psychiatrist.
Approaching your child with understanding, support, and empathy is essential. It is crucial not to be judgmental or confrontational, but rather provide a safe space for them to express themselves and seek help. Professional assessment and intervention can provide appropriate support and treatment options for both the child and the family. by understanding alarming Signs of Mental Health and Substance Use in Children, we can protect our children’s from substance dependence.
Availability of Treatment
- Pharmacological management to manage the withdrawal symptoms and helps in restoration of brain and body chemistry.
- Psychological management to develop coping skills, maintain recovery and prevent relapse.
Substance dependence is a relapsing disease. Awareness and constant conscious efforts can lead an individual to recovery and healthy life.
