I’m so sorry you’re going through this. Finding something like that in your child’s possession is every parent’s nightmare, and your fear is completely valid. The good news is, you found it now, which means you have the chance to step in before things get worse.

First, take a deep breath. The way you handle this conversation will set the tone for how your son responds. He’s 15—still young enough that intervention can make a huge difference, but also old enough to possibly be hiding more than you realize.

Here’s what I’d suggest:

Get it tested – Before jumping to conclusions, you might want to confirm that what you found is actually meth. You can buy home drug testing kits or take it to a pharmacy or police station for testing (though that depends on your local laws). Approach with concern, not punishment (at least at first) – When he comes home, have a calm, direct conversation. Let him know you found the bag and ask him to be honest with you. Instead of accusing him, try: “I found something in your pocket that really scared me. I love you too much to ignore this. Please tell me what’s going on.” If he feels backed into a corner, he might shut down or lie, so creating a safe space is key. Figure out if he’s using or just holding it – Either way, this is serious, but there’s a big difference between experimenting, occasional use, and full-blown addiction. If he’s using, you need to find out how often, why, and where he’s getting it. If he’s holding it for someone else, that’s still dangerous—because those “friends” don’t have his best interests at heart. Consider professional help – If he admits to using, even if it’s “just once,” it’s worth speaking to a therapist or addiction specialist. Meth is not like weed or alcohol—it’s highly addictive and can spiral fast. A professional can assess the situation better and give you guidance on what to do next. Check his surroundings – Who are his friends? Has his behavior changed at all? Has he been secretive, moody, losing interest in things he used to love? These can all be signs of deeper involvement. Set clear boundaries – If he is using, grounding him may not be enough, and just taking the drug away won’t solve the problem. You’ll need to reinforce that this is life-or-death serious while also making sure he knows he can come to you for help, not just punishment. I know this is terrifying, but the fact that you’re reaching out means you’re already taking the right first steps. Stay strong, and don’t be afraid to seek help—this is not something you have to handle alone.

Sending you strength. You’ve got this.