There are two areas that can represent the possibility of prolonged drug use: Physical Appearance and General Mannerisms. Remember this may not apply to everyone but are tell-tale signs that there could be a problem.
1) The Person generally looks "tired."
Some of us have days where we are just simply tired. This does not necessarily mean a drug use problem. However, it you notice someone who has the appearance of being "run down" whether it's morning, noon or mid-afternoon, this could be a sign of drug use. this condition comes about from abnormal burn-up of B-Complex from using drugs.
2) Darkening of skin below the eyes.
This is usually accompanied by "bags" under the eyes. It will look almost like the person has two black eyes if drug use is severe enough. This comes about from abnormal burn-up of calcium and magnesium. You might know someone who simply works long hours and gets very little sleep, and this could cause the darkening around the eyes. This does not mean this person is a drug user. As always, use your own good judgement.
3) Skin wrinkling around the eyes prematurely.
This can be seen as early as age 18. It comes about from abnormal burn-up of Vitamin C and calcium caused by prolonged drug use.
4) Skin on face has general appearance of sagging.
This is most notable around the eyes, mouth and cheeks. Obviously age has to be taken into account when this is noticed. This comes from abnormal burn-up of Vitamins A, D, & E as well as calcium.
5) Eyes are dull.
The best example you can get for yourself is to look very closely at people who don't do drugs and then at a person who is a known drug user. The difference is very distinct. This comes from abnormal burn-up of Vitamins A and D.
6) Skin tone is pale or grayish.
Again look closely at people you know who don't do drugs and get a good idea of their skin tones. Then compare to a known drug user. You can see the difference. Don't confuse this with someone who is naturally pale in skin tone. Just make the observation and you will get a sense of the difference. This comes from abnormal burn-up of Vitamins C and B-Complex.
7) The walk and body motions are sort of aimless (not definite and direct).
This mannerism will change when the person is actually on drugs, especially cocaine, speed or alcohol. The pace sort of picks up while they are high. After the drugs wear off you will notice this change in pace. This comes about from abnormal burn-up of B-Complex, especially Vitamin B1.
1) The person cannot comfortably look you in the eye when speaking, being spoken to or approached.
This is sometimes merely a sign of someone with very low communication skill and basic shyness.
2) The person is not dependable, is late to school/work and it keeps getting worse.
3) Generally sad, grumpy or a not caring attitude.
This could be the way a person is. However it is also a tip-off that there could be a prolonged drug use problem.
4) Short attention span, doesn't listen well.
This may be just a problem the person has. In the case of a young kid this may just be a growing phase they are going through. The point is to observe closely to determine which it is. This could indicate a drug use problem.
Most important is to be alert to sudden changes in the person. Things like being tired all morning, or suddenly happy and awake after lunch or a break. This could be a strong sign that the person is using drugs to get through the day.
At first you may not see any physical signs of drug use. Alcohol use is relatively easy to detect because of its odor. Marijuana smell is generally covered up by smoking cigarettes, or other things such as incense, room deodorizers, etc.
Another strong indicator is a sudden change in friends. This is a common occurrence that comes about from other influences that are not in your control.
The pressures that kids face are tremendous. In many cases you will not have the slightest clue that this is going on. It's treated by kids much the same way you would treat some incident at work that you feel is of no concern to your kid.
The best thing you can do for your kids is to ensure they are properly educated about drugs and that you maintain open communication channels with them.
A Rand Corporation report recommended that "the most effective way to prevent adolescent drug abuse is through preventive education."
The National Institute on Drug Abuse determined that "drug education programs have been largely ineffective in preventing substance use or abuse," adding, "Whereas many programs are effective in increasing drug knowledge, very few programs influence drug attitudes and even fewer influence drug use."
Narconon has developed a "New Learning Method" that has major impact on changing attitudes about drugs and their use.
According to an independent study of Narconon's drug education program, 86% of cases who attended a Narconon presentation had a positive change of attitude.
The "How to Talk to Kids About Drugs" handbook and "Truth About Drugs" video provided by Friends of Narconon are excellent sources of information.
_________________________________________________________________
Robert Hernandez is the president of Friends of Narconon International, a non-profit organization supporting Narconon Drug Education and Rehabilitation.
For further information call 888-774-2345.
Info courtesy of http://friendsofnarconon.org
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