HELP and advice for both users and parents is available from a range of sources, including the nationwide drugs advisory service FRANK (talktofrank.com).

The following is advice in the ‘How to tell if your child is doing drugs’ section:

Adolescence can be a tough time for young people – and your child might behave differently as a result. Remember that just because your child is acting differently, doesn’t mean they’re on drugs. If you’re worried that your child is using drugs, the best thing to do is sit down and have a calm and honest conversation with them.

The following signs don’t necessarily mean your child is taking drugs, but could be worth looking out for. Is your child:

•Mixing with new friends who may use drugs?

•Experiencing moods swings?

•Behaving badly or showing a bad attitude?

•Not sleeping properly and getting up very late?

•Being secretive or evasive about where they’re going and what they’re doing?

•Having problems in school, like poor performance or absences? Other potential signs of drug use are:

•Poor hygiene or appearance.

•Staying out late.

•Falling out with old friends, hanging out with a new crowd.

•Loss of appetite.

•Drowsiness.

•Red-rimmed eyes and/or a runny nose.

•An uncharacteristic loss of interest in school, hobbies and friends.

•Money going missing regularly for no apparent reason.

•Unusual equipment found in the house, such as burnt foil or torn cigarette packets. 

Local helplines

•Silkworth offers residential rehabilitation for men and women who are affected by drug and alcohol addiction. They can be contacted on 729060 or info@ silkworthlodge.co.uk.

•Government support: The Alcohol and Drugs Service can be contacted on 445000.

•If you know a young person experiencing problems with drugs or alcohol you can contact a young person’s substance misuse worker for free, confidential support on 445008 or by email a&dservice@health.gov.je.