There are few things when it comes to parenting more worrying than finding drugs in your child’s bedroom. Unfortunately, it’s something that can happen regularly, particularly in this day and age when they’re more accessible than ever before.

Around the world there is a drug crisis going on, with drug overdose rates among young people on the rise in countries such as the USA and UK. Naturally, that is terrifying for parents, and even more terrifying should you find drugs in their room. But what exactly should you do about it?

Don’t jump to conclusions

Firstly, it is important to understand that drug use is a complex issue and there may be underlying reasons for your child’s behaviour. It is important to avoid jumping to conclusions or making assumptions. Before confronting your child, take some time to gather your thoughts and plan your approach.

Talk openly with them and listen

Once you have calmed down, the first step is to talk to your child. Be honest and open about what you have found and express your concerns. It is important to listen to your child and try to understand their perspective. They may be using drugs as a coping mechanism for underlying mental health issues or problems at school or home.

Tell them it’s not ok and discuss the impact it can have

It is also important to set clear boundaries and consequences for drug use. Let your child know that drug use is not acceptable and that it will not be tolerated in your home. Make it clear that there will be consequences if they continue to use drugs, such as losing privileges or seeking professional help.

If you suspect that your child has a drug addiction, it is important to seek professional help. Addiction is a complex issue that often requires specialized treatment such as drug detox and counselling. Talk to your child’s doctor or a professional addiction counsellor to get advice on how to proceed.

Educate yourself

It is important to educate yourself about drugs and their effects. Understanding the risks and consequences of drug use will enable you to talk to your child in a knowledgeable and informed way. You can also seek advice from drug support groups or organizations, such as FRANK or Talk to Frank, that provide information and support for families affected by drug use.

Ensuring you have next steps in place

It is also important to take steps to prevent future drug use. This can include setting clear boundaries and consequences, monitoring your child’s behaviour and activities, and seeking professional help if necessary. Encourage your child to participate in positive activities, such as sports or hobbies, that can help them build self-esteem and confidence.

In some cases, it may be necessary to involve law enforcement. If you suspect that your child is involved in drug dealing or trafficking, or if you have found illegal drugs in your home, you should contact the police immediately. 

Ultimately, it’s all about protecting your child in the most efficient and effective way. There could be a wide range of reasons you have found drugs in their room, and getting to the bottom of it and moving forward in the most healthy and effective way is imperative to ensuring they don’t get lured in to the likes of addiction.