Willows Unified School District

Alcohol & Drug Abuse Information

What to Look For | What Parents Can Do | Resources

Indicators of Possible Substance Use or Abuse

Changes in performance in school or at work. For example, a drop in grades, work not completed
Absenteeism/Truancy. Excuses may be forged.
Attitude changes and/or mood swings
Change in personal appearance
Change in eating or sleeping habits
Withdrawal from family contacts
Change in health (frequent illness, coughing)
Apathy, lack of motivation
Paraphernalia -- pipes, bottles, chewing tobacco containers, rolling papers, small hand-held mirrors, etc.
Defensive about drugs or drug use
Association with others who have substance use or abuse problems
Money, alcohol, prescription or possessions missing from the home or work place

Communicate clear opposition to teen use of cigarettes, alcohol and illegal drugs, as well as clear rules regarding other expected behaviors.
Talk with your child about alcohol and other drugs, Learn to really listen to what your child has to say. Work to keep the lines of communication open.
Be a good role model or example. Your habits and attitudes may strongly influence your child's ideas about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.
Encourage healthy activities. Hobbies, school events and other activities may prevent your child from using drugs out of boredom or because of peer relationships with substance using peers.
If you do suspect drug use, share your concerns with your child when he or she is not under the influence. Approach your child with facts. Don't accuse. Discuss the things you have observed.
Take action! Contact the Counselor, At-Risk Advisor or School Psychologist at your child's school, and/or seek professional help and advice.
Try to get your child interested in clubs like Friday Night Live and Club Live. These clubs try to emphasize the uselessness of drugs, alcohol and violence by setting up various activities and parties. At these activities, students are shown how much more fun you can have without the use of alcohol and drugs. Leadership in the community is also emphasized in these clubs.

Glenn County Health Services Agency
242 North Villa Street
Willows, CA 95988
530.865.1146

Glenn County Health Services
Tobacco Control Program
240 N. Villa Avenue
Willows, CA 95988
530.934.6588

Alcoholics Anonymous
www.alcoholics-anonymous.org

Al-Anon/Alateen
www.al-anon.alateen.org

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