Studies have shown that teenagers are more inclined to act on impulses and engage in risky behavior. Sometimes, they even get into arguments just for their sake. Teenagers tend to be less able to think before acting and are more likely to misinterpret feelings or social cues. If you are a parent, you might be wondering, “Why does my teen act so hard?” or “Why doesn’t my teen talk to me?” The answer is biology.
A teenager may be struggling with a mental or drug problem. You might have tried numerous times to talk to him. You may worry constantly about your teenager’s safety, health, and whereabouts. You might be at a loss as to how to help a teenager struggling with drug addiction.
Being a parent to a drug-addicted teenager is one of your greatest challenges. However, this condition is easily treatable, especially if the child is young. Teenagers and young adults who are treated for a substance use disorder and receive Early Intervention are more likely than others to be abstinent and not have any problems later on in their lives. You need to help them get into treatment.
Strategies For Teens With Drug Addiction
Your Teenager’s Voice Is Important
Teenagers will resist help. As parents, however, you must understand what their fears are. It is important to listen to your teen before you try to convince him or her to seek treatment. Most likely, your child is in pain and doesn’t know what to say. You can listen to your teen’s feelings and give them a chance. Respect their feelings and show compassion.
Remain Calm
When you learn that your teen has been using drugs, it’s easy for anger to rise. You need to be able to communicate clearly with your child. Don’t yell at your teen or call them names. This will only increase the anger in your teen’s eyes and encourage them to be rebellious. If you remain calm and composed, it will be easier to have a productive conversation about your concerns with your teen.
Get To Know Your Teen
Your parental desires are clear: Your teen needs to be healthy and safe. You want your teenager to make better choices. You want your teen to go to detox alcohol center or get help for his/her psychological problems. Your question is, what do you want for your son/daughter?
Listening to your teenage friend means listening to their goals and priorities. Even though your teen may not want to admit that he/she has a drug problem he/she may be open and willing to work with you on other areas. A teen could be experiencing depression or anxiety. They may also want to feel better. Knowing more about your teen and the things he/she is looking forward to in his/her life will make it easier to motivate him/her to seek help. Together you can develop a strategy for positive change.
A Clinical Professional Should Be Involved
No one expects you can handle this situation all by yourself. Consider bringing in a professional if your teen doesn’t want to be helped, despite all your attempts to have calm conversations. Therapists can be a valuable resource and an ally for your child. You may also speak to your child’s pediatrician or general practitioner about the problem. The National Institute of Drug Abuse recommends speaking to your doctor about the issue.
You might also consider contacting a rehabilitation center yourself to enroll your teen. It is important to choose a treatment center that caters specifically to adolescents and young people. San Diego Detox is a treatment center specifically for teenagers who are struggling with substance addiction or co-occurring conditions. We understand the unique mentalities and pressures teens’ experience. We have developed programs that are specifically tailored for teens. Our programs provide safe, comfortable, and efficient treatment. If you’re ready, we can help.