Be aware that symptoms of alcohol and drugs use such as tiredness, aggression, nervousness and depression can be part of normal teenage behaviour. They can also be indicators of depression and stress.

However, if there are sudden moves in behaviour e.g move from being very depressed to very happy with no obvious reasons why, this may be more of an indication of drug use.

Other indications of drug use include them asking to borrow more money or spending more of their own than previously.

To find out more about the effects of specific drugs and what they look like, please look at drugs and alcohol section of this website or visit Talk to FRANK A-Z

Discussing drugs with children and young people
What can you do?

An open and supportive approach is recommended, make sure the information they have is accurate.

Arm yourself with the basic facts about drugs, alcohol and tobacco. This will prepare you for the important thing you can do...talk with your child / family.

If drugs are mentioned on TV or in the papers, use the opportunity to have a discussion. 

Think carefully about what you say and how you can say it, discuss, don’t lecture, try and put yourself in their shoes. FRANK can provide more guidelines about the subject of drugs with your child.

Be a good role model. If you drink alcohol, try and set a good example by drinking moderately. Never drive under the influence of alcohol and drugs

Croydon Trading Standards are keen to hear of retail outlets that maybe selling products illegally e.g cigarettes, alcohol and solvents. Contact them on 020 8407 1310.

What is taught in schools?

Drug education is usually taught in school as part  of the general Personal, Social, Health Education (PSHE) programme. It aims to increase pupils knowledge about drugs as well as allowing them to explore attitudes towards drug issues and develop skills for making healthy informed choices about drugs, alcohol and tobacco. It will include illegal drugs, alcohol and tobacco, as well as safe use of over the counter and prescription medicines. In addition to this pupils are taught about the law and drugs.

There are a number of local and national services that can provide treatment, support and advice of drug issues. These are identified below. Please click on the agency for more information.

Treatment and Support

Helpline

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