Illicit drug use used to be the problem, teens getting drugs from friends and parties to use, but these days the drug abuse dangers come from a more unsuspecting place, you. Many parents are still unaware of the growing problem of prescription drug use and abuse amongst teens as a way to get high. More than ever before allowing your teen access to prescription medications such as pain killers, anti depressants, and ADD drugs in particular can be deadly.

Drugs that are in these three specific categories are highly dangerous, highly addictive, and are recognized as desirable by teens and even some adults. The best way to avoid your teen, their friends or others, having access to these medications is to keep all your medication in one place and under lock and key. People might believe that this is extreme, but when you have a teen and you have his or her friends in and out of the house it is very easy for them to take a few pills without you even realizing it. And believe me, if they know that your house provides access to these drugs, they will come back again and again for refills. Keeping all your drugs in one place and making access to them difficult can prevent these teens from getting into trouble.

Your home is the first place teens say they get their drugs from these days. Either from the bathroom or other places around the house. The second most popular place they get their drugs from is from other relatives houses, so if you are planning a family visit to see relatives, or if they live close by, alert them in advance of the issue so they can also be prepared.

Teen drug use is not a pleasant thing for any family to have to deal with, and nobody wants to even think this could happen to their child. It is often true, however, and denying its existence will not make it go away. Even if your teens are not using the drugs, they may be selling them at school. Peer pressure is extremely powerful in teens’ lives and over time teens may just give it a try.

Don’t let your child’s privacy get in the way of doing your job as a parent. When signals arise, keep your eyes open and stay in touch with your teen. Pay attention to their internet use. Check out their backpack periodically, and if you find something don’t be afraid to call your child on it. Better safe than sorry. You are the best deterrent your teens have to help keep them on the right path.