Keeping up with kids’ slang these days is a never-ending trial. Gone are the days of “gnarly,” “radical,” or “totally tubular.” With the presence of social media, kids’ vernacular is ever-changing, for better or for worse.
As a parent, these slang words may be cause for concern, especially if you suspect those words might be linked to drug use. But how do you know for sure? And how can you respond without driving your child away?
You’re not alone in trying to understand what your child is saying or hiding. That’s why we’re here. With nearly 20 years in the drug rehab industry, we’ve learned a lot about how to interpret everyday drug slang, recognize warning signs, and open a line of communication that keeps kids safe. We’ll share key information in this article.
Why Drug Slang Matters
While some kids use drug slang simply to try to fit in, others may be disguising a genuine problem. Using different words for drugs allows kids to talk about drugs in public settings, via text, or across social media platforms without raising suspicion.
What might sound like a joke, nickname, or trending phrase could refer to a specific substance or activity. Decode the language to see what your child may be exposed to or experimenting with.
Words to Watch For
Although slang changes frequently, several terms tend to surface repeatedly across schools, online forums, and teen conversations.
Here are a few current terms associated with specific substances:
- “Snow,” “White,” or “Blow” – Cocaine
- “Bars” or “Zannies” – Xanax
- “Lean” or “Purple Drank” – Cough syrup mixed with soda and candy
- “Molly” or “E” – MDMA (Ecstasy)
- “Skittles” or “Trail Mix” – A mixture of prescription pills
- “Loud” or “Gas” – High-potency marijuana
- “Plug” – A dealer or supplier
- “420” – A coded reference to marijuana use
- “Perk” – Percocet (often misused or mixed with fentanyl)
You might also come across emojis that act as visual code: a leaf (🍃) for weed, a snowflake (❄️) for cocaine, or a pill (💊) for any prescription drug. When used in combination, these symbols can represent detailed plans or coded conversations.
Understanding your child’s language gives you a powerful window into their world.
Context Matters
Hearing a slang term once doesn’t automatically mean your child is using drugs. Teens use slang to fit in and joke around, so context is critical.
Listen not just for the words, but how they’re used. Does your kid make efforts to hide their conversations? Do they quiet down when you walk into the room? Are the slang terms consistently mentioned in texts?
You should also watch for changes in your child’s conduct and demeanor that correlate with their slang usage. If you’re seeing multiple red flags—such as slang terms paired with secrecy, sudden isolation, or declining school performance—take those signs seriously.
Respond With Compassion
The moment you suspect your child may be involved with drugs, your parental instincts kick in. You’ll feel tempted to confront them directly or search their room immediately. Be wary that starting that conversation the wrong way can lead your child to put up walls, which is the last thing you want.
Instead, create a calm, nonjudgmental space where your child feels safe talking to you. Ask open-ended questions like:
- “I’ve noticed some new words you’re using. Can you tell me what they mean?”
- “Have you heard friends talk about drugs or substances at school or online?”
- “If someone offered you drugs or alcohol, would you feel comfortable saying no?”
- “I’ve noticed that you’ve been more withdrawn lately. Is everything okay?”
Make sure your questions don’t sound like accusations. Invite your child to share what they feel. When your kid feels heard, they’re more likely to open up. And, if you’re genuinely unsure about the meaning of a word or phrase, you can ask them to explain it or look it up together.
If your child admits to experimenting with drugs, avoid anger. Focus on understanding why and how you can help them move forward with support.
If your child denies using drugs, stay calm and say something like, ‘I love you way too much to let you get hurt in any way. I need you to be honest with me, so I can know how to help you. My goal is not to get mad or punish you.”
If they still hold out, you have a right to verify their words. You can say something like, “That’s fine, but I still need to do some checking to get context on things.”
Steps You Can Take to Stay Informed
Being an informed parent doesn’t mean you know all the slang out there, but it does mean you stay aware and involved in your child’s life. You can protect them from potential harm without resorting to helicopter parenting.
Here’s how:
- Monitor communication in age-appropriate ways. Be aware of which apps they use and whether parental controls are needed.
- Keep an open dialogue. Discuss substance use periodically, not just once during “the talk.”
- Educate yourself regularly through online resources, community seminars, or school meetings.
- Build a support network of other parents and school counselors to whom you can turn for help.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you suspect your child may be using substances and feel unsure of what to do, reach out for support. Speak with a school counselor, family therapist, or addiction specialist from a substance abuse facility. Getting outside help doesn’t mean you’ve failed. This is new territory for you, and you’ll want to surround yourself with the best resources possible.
With early intervention, many teens can recover from drug experimentation without lasting harm. Left unchecked, however, occasional use can evolve into addiction.
If you live in Utah, contact our family-friendly addiction centers. We are focused on drug and alcohol treatment for brothers, sisters, fathers, and mothers, because we know that strong families are key to a healthy, drug-free society. The teenage years are hard, but your child can make it through the tough times and be better for it with you as their ally.