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In the News - March 2010
Signs a teen might have a drug abuse problem
LITTLE ROCK - Some of the signs that your teen may have a drug problem:
- Changes in weight, mood, appearance or interest in people, activities
and things he or she has always loved, like different friends or dropping
out of sports or clubs.
- Forgetfulness or clumsiness.
- Missing pills or prescription bottles.
- Signs of chronic illness like sweating, vomiting, slurring or flu-like
symptoms.
- Neglecting responsibilities such as homework and household chores.
- Being deceitful, avoiding eye contact, or unusual anger.
- Overly sensitive and defensive when approached and questioned.
Communication is a key to preventing drug abuse.
"Become a teen influencer by talking to your teenager about using medicines
wisely. Teens whose parents talk to them about the risk of drugs at home are up
to 50 percent less likely to use drugs," said Margaret Harris, Ph.D., assistant
professor of health with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
"The other key is to monitor, secure and dispose of your medicine properly."
For more information about using medicines safely with children and teens,
contact your county extension agent or visit our partners’ website
www.talkaboutrx.org,
www.bemedwise.org,
http://ioit2me.com,
and
http://www.arfamilies.org/health_nutrition/podcasts/
UseMedicinesWisely_video_audio.htm.
The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the University of Arkansas
Division of Agriculture and offers its programs to all eligible persons
regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability,
marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status, and is an
Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
March 5, 2010
Media Contact: Elizabeth Fortune
Extension Communications Specialist
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2120
efortune@uaex.edu
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