Advice desperately needed re potential drug use in teen boy

[rana1949]

Hi all,

Newbie here so please be kind :)

I'm looking for some advice about a family friend's 15 year old teenage son. We are all very concerned that he may have a drug problem - none of us have had any experience with this and are struggling.

He has been struggling at school (discipline issues/potential bullying) and has fallen in with a bad crowd of friends, who he has been drinking and smoking with. There have been a few episodes of him stealing cash from parents and he came home a while ago with hugely dilated pupils, agitated, paranoid and claiming to see "demons". In the morning, he claimed to be absolutely fine.

Obviously his parents are worried sick and I am a substitute granny, and just want to be able to help, but I don't know how to approach it best.

Any advice would be so appreciated,
rana

I can't help much I am afraid but can recommend the FRANK website (talktofrank?) for offering solid information and advice. I would also recommend parents speak to school immediately as they will have experience and resources. Hope this helps.

I wouldn't necessarily talk to the school.
The family need to make sure he can't access cash at all, lock bags and wallets away. Don't trust that he will resist the impulse to steal to fund his craving for drugs.
If he will engage with the family then work hard to occupy him as much as possible in good ways - if he has a hobby or interest then fund that with time and attention. Talk to him often about his hopes for the future. Don't preach.

Thank you so much for your advice, we really appreciate all suggestions.

The family are going to contact the the school straight away and are taking steps to ensure he no longer has access to money. They do understand that
someone outside the family is more likely to be listened to and that is the next step.