Teen Addiction Treatment: What Parents Should Know

Substance abuse is a heartbreaking obstacle for any family to face. Observing the signs of addiction in a loved one and urging them to seek help can be emotionally trying. This is especially true when the individual is your own child.

About 50 percent of teens have misused prescription or illicit drugs at least once in their lifetime. While this use may be one-time experimentation for some, it can go too far for others. Teens who struggle with substance abuse may experience dangerous consequences, including overdose.

While these facts may sound frightening to a parent, you are not powerless. There are steps you can take to stop the cycle of substance abuse and help your teen seek treatment. This guide will break down the basics of substance abuse in teens and what you can do to help your own child.

What are the signs of substance abuse in teens?

As a concerned parent, it’s important to recognize the signs of drug and alcohol abuse in teens. While these symptoms can be different for everyone, there are some common signals you can look for.

You might notice a change in behavior in your teen. They could be acting withdrawn, tired, hostile, depressed, and solitary. Your teen may also lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, start spending time with a new friend group, and have a decline in academic performance. They might be skipping school, making secretive plans, and ignoring their own personal care. In some cases, teens may get into trouble with the law.

Some physical symptoms of substance abuse include changes in appetite and sleep patterns. They may show sudden weight gain or loss, frequent illness, nosebleeds, tremors, sweating, vomiting, and headache. You may also notice that your teen is having difficulty with coordination.

How can you start a conversation about substance abuse with your teen?

If you suspect that your child may be abusing alcohol or drugs, it’s essential to start a conversation. You may be feeling nervous or uncomfortable, but speaking up is the first step in encouraging your child to seek help. Generally, it’s best to be as direct as possible and approach the conversation with a compassionate tone. A simple question like, “I’m worried about you. Have you been using drugs or drinking?” can be incredibly effective.

If your teen says that they have been using, stay calm and tell them that you’d like to help them seek treatment. Remember that they may be more likely to accept help if they feel that you are on their side and coming from a place of love rather than authority. If your child denies using, affirm that you are worried about them. Parents who believe that their children are lying may need to seek professional opinion.

What if your teen does not want to go to treatment?

Your teen may not be receptive to seeking help for addiction, which could happen for a number of reasons. They could be scared of treatment in general, fearful of social consequences, or have a desire to disobey authority. However, it is your role as a parent to get your teen the treatment they need.

If your teen refuses to go to treatment, you should seek the help of a substance abuse professional who specializes in teen addiction. They can provide support or intervention to help your child come around. This third-party will talk to your teen and learn about their condition. They will help your teen feel supported each step of the way and ensure a smooth transition into a treatment facility. With this help, you can ensure that your teen receives the care they need.

What types of addiction treatment are available for teens?

When researching treatment options for your teen, be sure that you find a treatment center that specializes in teen addition. Facilities like Polaris adolescent residential treatment centers have excellent inpatient care programs for teens. Programs like individual therapy, behavioral counseling, family-based therapy, and group counseling are some common types of treatment. An opioid and heroin treatment program is likely specialized to treat this unique type of addiction. Your teen’s doctor or addiction specialist can make recommendations for treatment programs and facilities.

Guiding your teen toward substance abuse treatment can be challenging for any parent, so be sure to take care of yourself, as well. Individual and group therapy can help you emotionally cope with this difficult time. By doing what is best for your teen and family, you can move past addiction and watch your child thrive in the future.