Adolescent Substance Use


Things to consider if a young person you know is in need of help...

If a child or adolescent you know is struggling and has come to you for help, you can take steps to assist them achieving a healthy, happy outcome and lifestyle. Below are some important facts about substance abuse that can help you determine if they need a higher level of help.

  • Talk to the youth, and, ask them what is going on
  • Offer hope
  • Know the available resources
  • Call a crisis center, 911, or take the youth to your local emergency department
  • Encourage the teen to contact a supportive service like those listed below, this will provide a professional to talk with them while waiting for emergency services
  • Do NOT leave the child/teen alone

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M: “They could just stop using if they really wanted to.”
F: Exposure to drugs can alter the brain in many ways. This can result in powerful cravings and urges that make it very hard for someone to stop using without support and intervention.
M: “You can’t help someone until they have hit rock bottom.”
F: Recovery can begin at any time in the addiction process. The earlier the intervention, the higher the rate of success. The longer substance abuse continues, the more difficult it can be to treat.
M: “Forcing treatment doesn’t work. The person needs to want the help.”
F: Not all treatment is voluntary. Sometimes, “mandated” treatment is the best chance someone can have. Pressure from families, employers, and the legal system can all help start the recovery process.
M: “Treatment didn’t work last time. There’s no point in trying again.”
F: Recovery can be a long journey, and there can be set backs. This doesn’t mean treatment has failed. A relapse is a signal that the person needs to get back on track

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  • Often sick and showing flu-like symptoms (runny nose, watery eyes)
  • Drop in grades, skipping school/classes
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Changes in friends and social groups
  • Loss of interest in extracurricular activities
  • Isolating, secretive behaviors
  • Sudden mood changes, “nodding off”
  • Starting to get into minor legal trouble (stealing or breaking curfew)
  • Physical symptoms such as bloodshot eyes, unexplained bruises, frequent nosebleeds, pupils smaller or larger than usual, slurred speech

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  • Start early, as young as pre-k! Don’t wait until there’s a problem. Make sure your child knows you don’t approve of children using drugs and alcohol.
  • Find teachable moments to let your child know it’s OK for them to say “NO” to friends pressuring them. Encourage them to be their own individual.
  • Use current events, TV, music, magazines/books and social media to start conversations. When you see someone on TV using substances or hear song lyrics about drug use, ask your child what they think about it.
  • Confront problems quickly and directly.
  • If you’re having difficulty finding time to sit together, schedule it. Leave a note on their bed with an “appointment time” and place. Bring snacks.
  • Make sure you’ve left yourself open for your child to come back to you with concerns or questions anytime they to.

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