Teenage drug addiction is one of the most horrible nightmares a parent can experience. If parents realize their teenagers are getting into addictive behaviors, they get confused about the necessary actions to control them.
Approximately one out of five teenagers will try consuming drugs or alcohol at some stage during their adolescent years. Identifying the signs of teenage drug addictions and taking action soon can significantly decrease the impact of substance use disorders on their future life.
Also, it is one of the crucial steps to control the alarming growth of substance addictions in the country.
Additionally, failing to intervene early enough with counseling and treatment can cause various problems. These include poor educational achievement, risks of overdose and permanent disability, changes in behavior and personality, among others.
Parents need to identify the signs and symptoms of drug abuse early enough. Later, they will know where to seek help and intervene to get their teenagers into a rehab center for treatment.
What are the First Steps to Solve Substance Addictions Among Teenagers?
There are several things that parents and guardians should do to obtain the necessary treatment for teenage drug addiction.
But before a parent knows of the course of treatment, the following are the different factors to consider first.
- The types of drugs and substances your teenager is using
- The period of drug addiction since they started abusing
- Does the teenager abuse multiple substances?
- Are they using additional drugs to treat an underlying mental health issue?
- Any needs involving the family and the teens
In most cases, the first step drug addicts go through include a safe and medically-supervised detox program to manage the withdrawal process. Usually, it is unsafe for anyone to quit drugs cold-turkey due to the withdrawal symptoms consequences.
However, seeking help from a detox rehab center will ensure your teen can safely withdraw from a drug use under the supervision of a professional medical team. Eventually, they may need to remain in a rehab facility or attend an outpatient rehab program for a few months following a successful drug detox.
Such centers can address multiple conditions related to teenage drug addiction. Also, They can prevent relapsing challenges while promoting sobriety and recovery.
Do I need a Professional to Address Teenage Drug Addiction?
If you notice advanced signs of drug abuse in your teen, and you realize you can’t handle them alone, seek a professional immediately. The longer you delay taking action for substance abuse in your teen, the more difficult it becomes for the teen to stop the addictive behaviors.
An excellent family doctor can screen your teenagers to determine whether they are merely experimenting or struggling with drug abuse disorders. An expert therapist can also advise whether a teenager should attend an outpatient treatment program for mild issues or inpatient rehab for advanced substance abuse disorders.
Also, when you decide on the best treatment option, ensure to consult a professional who is knowledgeable in teenage drug addiction recovery. Also, communicate with our advisors at therecovery.com/contacts for free advice and the way forward.
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