How Do You Know?

Lesson: You don't know. But there behaviors to watch for. Mother's intuition cannot be overstated, as well. If you know of some inappropriate things your child is doing, I can absolutely guarantee it's only the tip of the ice berg.

Some things to look for:
-mood swings
-different friends he's highly protective of
-school performance dropping
-change in physical health - is he more/less hungry, etc.
-evidence - check the medicine cabinet
-attitude

I can often tell just by looking at my children if things are alright or not. Compare these pictures. And focus on the countenance (definition: appearance, especially the look or expression of the face). You can tell a lot.

A week before sent to the program.

 

 Just before graduating from a residential treatment program.

10 months ago.

I wonder if other people notice this about their children.

A wise family member offered this: "I can also tell a lot by how much time a child will spend with [his/her mom or me].  If they always hang with friends and never at our  home, they are probably involved in things we would not approve of.  If they are angry with us for no good reason, it's probably because they are uncomfortable (is that the right word?) being around us because of their choices, actions and behavior."