We like to think that special needs students have enough to worry about, and peer pressure to do drugs, drink and smoke should not affect them. In today’s society, these things are, sadly, within easy reach for almost anyone. Some students, particularly in junior high and high school, think nothing of introducing special needs students to these types of influences. Some even think it is funny. Be aware that there are students who are willing to introduce special needs students to drugs and other addictive substances. Be knowledgeable about the signs of use. And be prepared to confront the problem if it does arise.
It can be difficult to know if an odd behavior or symptom is due to a condition, a prescription medication prescribed by a doctor or an illegal substance. One sign of illegal drug abuse is sneakiness. If you suspect your child is keeping something from you, they probably are. It may not be anything as serious as illegal drugs, but you need to find out what it is. Remember that special needs students want to fit in and be cool just as much as their peers do.
There are home kits available at most pharmacies that can be used to test your child in the privacy of your home. If you truly suspect that your child has been exposed to or is using illegal drugs, this test will allow you to know the answer without involving authorities so that you can get them the help they need before it becomes a legal matter. It will be necessary to involve law enforcement in order to apprehend and punish the person or people responsible for bringing the drugs to school.