Ohio School Safety Training Spotlights Signs of Drug Impairment

By

Taiwo AKINLAMI

On October 9 and 11, 2024, the Ohio Department of Public Safety held a two-part training program, “Drug Education Training,” at Ohio Christian University and North Olmsted High School. This event attracted school administrators and community leaders from across Ohio, aiming to equip educators with the knowledge to identify and address drug use among students. One of the most critical sessions, “Signs of Impairment,” led by Sergeant Samuel Criswell and Staff Lieutenant Nathan E. Dennis from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, focused on helping participants recognize various signs of drug impairment in young people.

The Importance of Recognizing Drug Impairment

Staff Lieutenant Nathan E. Dennis, an 18-year veteran of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, opened the session by emphasizing the significance of understanding drug impairment, particularly as it relates to youth. With extensive experience in coordinating impaired driving programs and drug recognition expert (DRE) training, Dennis offered critical insights into how drugs affect individuals and how to spot signs of impairment.

“Our goal today,” Dennis explained, “is to educate you on the different drug categories and signs of impairment so that you can identify students who might be struggling with drug use and help them get the support they need.” He stressed the importance of awareness among school personnel, noting that early intervention can often prevent more serious consequences.

Categories of Drugs and Their Impact on Impairment

Dennis introduced the seven categories of drugs that the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Drug Recognition Expert program uses to evaluate impaired individuals:

1. Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants: This category includes alcohol, anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants, and tranquilizers. CNS depressants slow the brain’s function, which results in sluggishness, slurred speech, and impaired reflexes. Dennis reminded participants that alcohol is often the most recognizable CNS depressant, but prescription medications, which students can easily access at home, are also widely abused.
2. CNS Stimulants: Drugs in this category, such as methamphetamine, cocaine, and medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), have the opposite effect of depressants. Stimulants increase alertness and energy, but they also result in heightened anxiety, agitation, and exaggerated reflexes. Dennis highlighted the common abuse of ADHD medications by students looking for performance enhancement.
3. Hallucinogens: Substances like LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, and MDMA (ecstasy) fall into this category. Hallucinogens distort perception, causing individuals to see or hear things that aren’t real. Students using hallucinogens may exhibit dilated pupils, erratic behavior, and paranoia, making it crucial for educators to be aware of these signs.
4. Dissociative Anesthetics: This group includes drugs like PCP and ketamine, which detach individuals from reality and cause them to feel invulnerable. Dennis emphasized that these drugs are particularly dangerous because users may not feel pain and often become violent. Signs of impairment include a blank stare, confusion, and aggressive behavior.
5. Narcotic Analgesics: Narcotics, such as heroin and prescription opioids like fentanyl and oxycodone, are primarily used to relieve pain. However, their misuse is common and dangerous. Dennis warned that narcotics can slow breathing and cause users to nod off mid-sentence. Constricted pupils are a telltale sign of opioid use.
6. Inhalants: These include substances like paint thinner, gasoline, and aerosol sprays. While the high from inhalants is brief, they can cause significant damage to the brain and body. Symptoms of inhalant use include disorientation, headaches, and chemical odors on the breath or clothes.
7. Cannabis: With the increasing legalization of marijuana, cannabis use is more widespread than ever, especially among young people. Dennis explained that high THC levels in today’s marijuana can result in significant impairment. Signs of cannabis use include red eyes, relaxed inhibitions, and a general lack of coordination.

Polydrug Use and Its Dangers

One of the most alarming trends discussed by Dennis was polydrug use, where individuals combine drugs from multiple categories. For example, mixing alcohol with cannabis is becoming increasingly common and poses serious risks. “When people combine drugs like alcohol and marijuana, they may not feel the effects of one drug, which can lead to overconsumption,” Dennis explained. This is particularly dangerous when individuals attempt to drive or engage in other activities that require full cognitive and physical capabilities.

Dennis also mentioned the phenomenon of “speedballs,” a dangerous combination of stimulants like cocaine with narcotics like heroin. Although less common today, this type of polydrug use is incredibly risky due to the contrasting effects of the drugs.

Indicators of Drug Impairment

Dennis provided participants with specific indicators to watch for when identifying impaired students:

• CNS Depressants: Slurred speech, slow reflexes, and drowsiness are common. These students may seem drunk without the smell of alcohol.
• CNS Stimulants: Hyperactivity, talkativeness, and rapid movements are telltale signs. Students may also have dry mouths and runny noses, especially if they are snorting stimulants like cocaine.
• Hallucinogens: Look for dilated pupils, erratic behavior, and paranoia. Students on hallucinogens may be unable to distinguish between reality and hallucinations.
• Dissociative Anesthetics: Blank stares, a dazed appearance, and lack of coordination are typical. Students using these drugs may also exhibit unusual strength due to their detachment from pain.
• Narcotic Analgesics: Watch for constricted pupils, slow breathing, and a tendency to nod off during conversations. Students may also show signs of withdrawal if they are dependent on these drugs.
• Inhalants: Shortness of breath, chemical odors, and confusion are common indicators. Students may also exhibit unusual behavior, such as talking to themselves or stumbling.
• Cannabis: Red, bloodshot eyes, a relaxed demeanor, and delayed reaction times are common. Students using cannabis may also have a distinct odor of marijuana.

Moving Forward

Dennis closed his session by encouraging educators to take action if they suspect a student is impaired. “It’s about recognizing the signs early and getting the right support in place,” he said. By being vigilant and informed, Ohio’s school communities can play a critical role in addressing drug use among students and creating a safer, more supportive environment for everyone.

The training concluded with a reminder that recognizing the signs of impairment is the first step toward intervention, offering hope to students struggling with substance abuse. Educators left with the knowledge and resources to make a positive difference in their schools, taking proactive steps to safeguard Ohio’s youth from the dangers of drug use.

Taiwo AKINLAMI is the Curator-in-Chief of the S.A.F.E for Children® Information Bank, Ohio, a project of Power Parenting Company LLC (http://www.powerparentingcompany.com/)