Warning Signs

1. Unusual smells such as deodorant sprays or burning incense
2. Sunglasses or eye drops to cover up bloodshot eyes
3. Breath freshener to cover up the smell of drugs
4. Used matches in a house where no one smokes
5. Unusual items in their room - pieces of foil in the bin, resealable plastic bags, razor blades, bent spoons with burn marks underneath
6. Alcohol or prescription drugs disappearing
7. The disappearance of easy to sell items
8. The garden hose getting shorter - can be used in smoking marijuana
9. A dramatic change in friends - be aware of those friends you never meet.
10. Sudden and out of character mood swings, accompanied by a genuine distancing from the family.

WARNING - These signs do not necessarily mean a person is taking drugs.

Symptoms described may be part of normal adolescent behaviour or attributed to being "in love" and should not be taken in isolation. AVOID MAKING ACCUSATIONS. Talk about it calmly, express your concern and ask the person to respond to the matters you have raised.

If you suspect a person of drug taking, contact the drug and alcohol unit at your local hospital to find out more information on detecting and dealing with the use of drugs.