Finding Help for Teen Addiction

Many people think that just because teens try alcohol or drugs, they will immediately become an addict. That is not always the case. Peer pressure can cause any teenager to do things they will later regret, and there are many factors that could lead to teen substance abuse, and consequently, teen addiction.

What Are Addiction and Substance Abuse?

Nowadays, it is essential to have a better understanding of and the ability to distinguish addiction from drug abuse. More and more teens fall into drug abuse every day, and it is our job, as parents, to protect and prevent our loved ones from experiencing this problem. Teens who abuse drugs are more likely to become addicted when they turn into adults.

Substance abuse and addiction are not the same thing. Substance abuse is what happens when an individual uses a substance in the wrong way. It doesn’t matter if the substance is obtained legally or not. Too much use can lead to abuse. To put it simply, you can abuse alcohol or drugs without being addicted to them. Addiction is the result of prolonged substance abuse.

Why Do Teens Use Drugs?

Craving to try and do something risky and new is a typical part of teen development. Experimentation plays a major role in teenage drug use. Almost half of new drug users are usually at the age of 18 or younger. Fully understanding teen addiction and the reasons why teens are so eager to experiment may help you deal with the problem you and your family may be facing.

Here are some of the common causes of teen drug abuse:

• Peer pressure
• Emotional struggles
• Curiosity
• Stress
• Desire to escape

How to Help Your Teens Fight Addiction?

If you believe that your teen is struggling with addiction, here are some of the things you can try to help them deal with the problem:

1. Communicate

Tell them honestly how you feel about their addiction and how it has affected you and your relationship with them. An addicted person is typically more open to change if you try to talk and communicate with them honestly without judging or criticizing them harshly.

If you wish for them to change, then you need to adapt to some changes too. Even if your intentions are pure and your only purpose is to help, it is important to show them that you are willing to go through some adjustments as well. Showing them some support by willingly trying to adapt will make them feel seen and understood, which will push them to do their best to try and change as well.

2. Visit a Doctor

If you suspect your teen might be addicted to drugs or any other substance, consulting your doctor may be a good place to start and address the problem. You can schedule your loved one for an appointment and talk to your doctor about addiction and drug use. They will be able to provide you with suggestions on what your next steps must be if your teen is suffering from addiction. They may also refer you to specialists in order to provide better and more accurate assistance.

If you don’t know where to search for a well-trusted doctor, you may connect with a drug counselor or an addiction specialist and make an appointment. One of the problems parents face when their teens experience addiction is that they don’t listen to a parent’s advice. However, they might greatly consider listening and taking the advice of a medical expert or a therapist.

3. Seek Treatment

Once you are connected to a specialist or a doctor, you can go ahead and look for treatment programs and teen rehab centers that are suitable for your child. You should focus on locating a facility specializing in working with teenagers.

4. Offer Your Love And Support

When you finally encourage your teen to get treatment, the next thing you need to do is show your love and support to them no matter what. This will motivate them to get well and change for the better.

How Haven House Recovery Center Can Help

If your loved one or someone you know is suffering from addiction, feel free to use the information mentioned above to help them recover from teen addiction. If you are looking for a recovery center near Clarksville for teens, Haven House Recovery Center is here to discuss your issues and help your teen to recover from addiction. Let us help you. Do not hesitate and contact us right away.