CHANDIGARH: Under the Bhagwant Mann government’s ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’, the focus is widening from cutting off the drug supply to also catching vulnerability early. The state is working towards providing young people with help before occasional or experimental use turns into dependence or addiction. The question being asked of parents is a simple one: are there signs family members can watch out for to intervene early and prevent the child from falling into addiction? Experts say there are.
Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh puts it plainly: “Every child can be saved from addiction with care, compassion and conversation. As families, caregivers, and society, we must keep our eyes, ears and hearts open.” He adds, “If you find some concerning changes in someone close to you, then pay attention and respond with empathy.”
Neglect of appearance and hygiene, reduced appetite or weight loss, and shifts in eating habits can be other warning signs. There are physical signs too. Red or glazed eyes, unusual pupil size, drowsiness or frequent tiredness, agitation, tremors, slurred speech, poor coordination, repeated bruising, or, in more severe cases, injection marks.
If a parent finds out that the child is into drug abuse, the instinct to react strongly is natural but often counterproductive. An emotionally charged confrontation tends to push a child further into secrecy. The recommended approach is to pause, then have a private, calm conversation aimed at understanding what is driving the behaviour. If substance abuse is suspected or disclosed, parents should avoid shaming, threatening, labelling or responding solely by punishment, as these approaches may discourage the child from seeking help. Instead, parents should listen carefully, communicate concern, and work collaboratively with the child to identify suitable support
