Discovering that your teenage son or daughter is abusing a substance can be a shocking and painful revelation. Trends show that more teens are becoming addicted to drugs and alcohol, with the greatest rise being seen in kids from middle and upper-middle class households. Addictions can cause serious problems with social, psychological and physical development. If you suspect that your teen is addicted to a substance, it’s important to make sure that they get help. Here are the steps you should take.
Recognize the Signs
Addiction presents many common signs, but unless you’re already aware of the problem, they can be surprisingly easy to miss or mistake for something else. Extreme changes in eating habits, social isolation, bloodshot eyes, stealing, failing grades, missing school or work and changes in weight are a few examples of what to look for. Teen addicts might also resort to stealing to support their habit, or may begin keeping unsavory company.
Talk With Them
As soon as you notice there’s a problem, sit down with your teen and talk to them about it. You’re likely going to feel angry, and that’s understandable, but expressing that will just make them become defensive and closed off. Try to maintain a calm and sympathetic demeanor. Tell them you know about their addiction and because you love them, it worries you. Be understanding of your teen during this hard time. It’s not easy growing up, and numerous complicated outside factors may be at play behind their addiction.
Provide Your Love and Support
Let your teen know that you want to help them overcome their addiction and offer your love and support. The road to recovery is never an easy or simple process. There will likely be mood problems, cravings and a period of depression during substance withdrawal. Physical withdrawal effects are also common and can be intensely unpleasant. Unfortunately, these symptoms can drive people back to substance abuse just to find relief, so these will be the hardest times. Studies show that addicts with a strong network of support from family and friends are far more likely to stay sober.
Enroll Them in Rehab
Because it’s so difficult to give up an addiction, many people opt to enter professional rehabilitation. It’s available on an in-patient and out-patient basis to suit a person’s particular needs. You can search for Ohio drug and alcohol rehab centers that specialize in treating teens with addiction. Rehab offers social and medical support throughout the process and teaches the necessary skills for coping with stress.
Addiction is a very serious problem that typically worsens with time. Talk with your teenager and let them know you can help. The sooner you take steps to help your teen recover, the more likely they are to recover successfully.
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