Meth ~ Effects on Children
Sadly, many Michigan children are forced to live in dangerous drug environments, including methamphetamines. Authorities are now combining their resources and concentrating their efforts to protect these endangered children who have been exposed to serious physical, health and emotional harm.
Children in a methamphetamine environment are especially at risk because they are living in a highly hazardous situation prone to explosions, fires,and toxic chemical contamination. The children living in homes with labs are at an increased risk for severe neglect & physical and sexual abuse also.
They may experience the trauma of witnessing violence & forced participation in violent situations. They may also be forced into caring for an incapacitated parent or sibling; as well as witnessing their parents get arrested. These children may also be separated from their siblings when removed from the home.
The state methamphetamine task force is currently working on designing a protocol for dealing with children removed from homes with meth lab or drug exposure. The Drug Endangered Children (DEC) protocol combines law enforcement, social services, medical personnel, and prosecutors in a multijurisdictional approach to stop this form of abuse; and compose a standard protocol for use in Michigan. The DEC protocol places the importance of providing for the immediate health and safety of children at a drug scene, followed by the preservation of child abuse crime scene evidence, and then aggressive prosecution of the abusing parents. DEC also places a high emphasis on sharing case and investigation information, child interviewing techniques, and case coordination designed to safely remove and provide treatment to methamphetamine-endangered children.
Allegan County has had a protocol in place since August of 2004.
Physical effects on children
Children living in or around the chemicals used in the labs may experience the following symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, coughing, chest pains, lack of coordination, eye irritation, and chemical burns and sores. They should be monitored for symptoms even after a full medical exam is completed.
Emotional effects on children
Many children who live in drug homes exhibit an attachment disorder. The symptoms to be aware of include: an inability to trust, to form relationships, and to adapt. These children may require mental health interventions, as well as stable, nurturing caregivers.
Methamphetamine use during pregnancy
Taking methamphetamine during pregnancy may affect the babies brain, spinal cord, heart, and kidney development. Premature delivery & birth deformities are common, as well as increased blood pressure leading the baby to suffer a stroke or brain hemorrhages. Babies may be born missing limbs and have severe abnormalities. They often experience sleep disturbances and altered behavioral pattern. They will likely have difficulty sucking and swallowing. They often can’t tolerate stimuli such as human touch and light. They display tremors and coordination problems. The long term effects include hyperactivity, A.D.D., learning disabilities, and fits of anger.
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