There comes a time in many parent’s lives when their child shows signs of addiction or substance abuse. Sadly, it happens more often that you may realize. NIDA reported that in 2010, teen marijuana use was at the highest since the 1980′s. It is frightening, confusing, and somewhat numbing, but it is imperative to take some sort of action. Delaying action can have devastating results. Ignoring the problem will most certainly make things much worse. Know the signs of addiction, and be prepared to come up with a plan if you strongly feel that the child is showing any of the effects of drug or alcohol use.
.
Signs of Addiction
There are some universal symptoms, or signs of drug addiction. Some occur at the beginning of substance abuse, and others show up after the addiction has taken hold. Watch your child carefully for any of the following signs.
Sudden change in behavior
- Mood Swings (Being very grumpy and then very happy, and so forth)
- Lack of personal grooming or hygiene
- Withdrawal from family members
- Frequent stuffy or runny nose without reason
- Change in sleeping pattern (sleeping too much or very little)
- Red or glassy eyes
- Marked change in school work and grades
- Change in friends or types of friends
Taking Action
One of the best ways to handle the suspicion of substance abuse is to talk to the teen or young addult. Often, their reaction can give you the answer. Teens who are confronted will often become overly aggressive, defensive and angry. Here are some tips on what to do if your teen shows signs of drug addiction or abuse.
- Educate yourself about drugs and addiction symptoms
- Honestly tell your son or daughter about your concerns and let them know that YOU know
- Do not lose your temper (try to connect with them)
- Be prepared – know what you will say and how you will respond to them
- Get addiction help if needed from professionals – Narconon is always ready to help
- Be persistent and don’t make excuses for the addict
Being alert to the possibility of addiction is a must for parents. It is not easy to discover that your teen may be using and abusing drugs. It doesn’t matter what type of drug it is. Many teens start out using alcohol or marijuana, but some start by taking medications they find in the home. Regardless of the drug of choice, parents have to get past the guilt and deal with the situation at hand. It is the teens problem, and the parent’s responsibility to help them with it, but not to take the blame. Narconon can help parents through every step of confronting the son or daughter and getting help for them. They will give straight answers to the tough questions, and if needed they will assist the parents to get the addicted family member started on the road to recovery.
You are not alone in this. All too many parents must deal with this problem. It is best to handle it directly and quickly. No one benefits by ignoring the problem or delaying action. Teens and young adults need guidance in this situation, and they depend on their parents for it, even if they do not realize it themselves. Even if you are uncertain what to do next, do something. Narconon counselors are available 7 days a week to help you if need be. Drug addiction, if not dealt with, could take the life of your son or your daughter. Without guidance and help, it is very possible they will begin to turn to stronger and more lethal drugs before too long.
If your son or daughter is addicted to drugs or alcohol, get them to start on the road to recovery today; call 1-877-782-7409.
Authors bio is coming up shortly.