Adolescence is a time of growth as a person, experimenting with interests and meeting new friends. Unfortunately, trying new things and meeting different people can quickly devolve into teen drug abuse. Since the teenager’s mind and body is still developing, this is an especially dangerous time to experiment with drugs. Through an adolescent addiction treatment center, teens can get the help they need to quit using drugs and alcohol.
How Teen Drug Abuse Works
Teens start using drugs for many reasons. Sometimes, they begin experimenting because they want social acceptance. At this age, few teens really think about the consequences of their actions. They feel young and indestructible, so they take risks that they would never consider in another decade.
While teen drug abuse can happen to anyone, those who have a family history of substance abuse are more vulnerable. Someone is more likely to have an addiction if they have family members who also have an addiction. Mental and behavioral disorders like depression also make addictions more likely.
Like adults, teens are more likely to develop an addiction if they have low self-esteem or a history of trauma. Teenagers who normally engage in risky, impulsive behavior also have a higher chance of developing an addiction. If the teenager has friends who use drugs, they may feel peer pressure to try using as well.
Signs of Drug and Alcohol Abuse
While many teens try to hide their drug use, there are common signs that parents can look for. Parents may notice that their child has bloodshot eyes or changes in appetite. The teen may suddenly lose interest in their favorite activities, hang out with different friends, or stop caring about their personal appearance.
As the addiction becomes more severe, the teenager may struggle with bad grades in school. They may break rules at home, miss curfew, or withdraw from family life. Parents may also notice drug paraphernalia or medicine containers in the teen’s bedroom.
Getting Help
It might not be possible to prevent every case of teen drug abuse, but parents can help by intervening early on. A outpatient treatment center for teens can also help with the teen’s recovery. Parents can start the process by talking to their child. It is never too early to intervene and discuss a potential problem.
Staying calm and encouraging honesty can help the teenager to open up. Parents can also discuss specific details that made them worry about their teen. To keep the dialogue going, focus on discussing the behavior instead of the teen. If it seems like there is a problem with drinking or drug abuse, parents can seek out professional help at a drug addiction treatment center.
A quality treatment program can help through options such as:
- Family therapy and counseling
- Individual therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Teen-specific programs
- Group therapy
You do not have to let an addiction take over your or your teen’s life. An experienced treatment center can help you begin your journey toward a healthy, happy recovery.