Could your teen be using drugs or alcohol? Some parents may not believe this is possible. Others may recognize the risks but are unsure what to do about them. The signs of substance use in adolescents are nothing to ignore. The sooner you react to it, and do so in a positive way, the better off your child will be at overcoming these challenges. At Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center, we have the tools to help you do this. To learn about your teen’s treatment options at our faith-based adolescent treatment center, contact us at 662.373.2828 today.
Is Some Drug Use Okay?
There are some parents who expect their teen to steal a bottle of alcohol from the liquor cabinet or to experiment with marijuana or other drugs. There is no level of substance use like this that is safe. In every situation, your child is at risk for the development of dependency. In addition to this, your child may be faced with complications from engaging in risky behavior because of their use. In short, if you think your son or daughter may be using drugs or alcohol, it’s best to find help.
What Are the Signs of Substance Use in Adolescents?
The early warning signs of substance use in adolescents are always hard to see, but when you can react to these now, you can ensure your child’s future remains safe. Some of the most common signs include:
- No longer having an interest in things they enjoyed
- Breaking the rules and engaging in risky behavior
- Sleeping more or very little
- Missing prescription medications or alcohol from the home
- Aggressive or angry behavior
- Dropping old friends for new people
- Sudden physical changes such as bloody or watery eyes and the shakes
The signs of substance abuse in adolescents will programs as they continue to use. For example, many will develop classic dependence and withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Needing money often
- Not completing assignments
- Not maintaining relationships
- Needing to use more of the same substance or more frantic behavior
- Physical pain and being ill from lack of use
When you see these signs happening, it is best to reach out for help. Because substance abuse disorder can occur early on, it is best to get your loved one help as soon as possible.
What Type of Help Is Best?
After a full assessment, our team will provide you with insight into what type of care is best for your teen. In some cases, this will involve medical detox as a first step. Residential addiction treatment is also beneficial to many teens, as in this program, they can escape the peer pressure and stress of the outside world. We also provide private schooling for the boys in our residential treatment program so that they can stay caught up with their classmates.
We offer a wide range of therapies to help your loved one, including evidence-based and holistic treatment options. Our therapy methods include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Yoga therapy program
- Art therapy program
- Trauma therapy program
When You Need Help, Reach Out to Stonewater Immediately
When you notice the signs of substance use in adolescents, the first and most important step to take is to reach out for help. They cannot stop using on their own if they are dependent on the substance. They may be unable to even know they need help. Our team at Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center provides you with the tools, the safe place, and the supportive services you and your loved one need. Contact our faith-based treatment center at 662.373.2828 to learn more about the treatment options available for your teen.
Stonewater is a comprehensive dual-diagnosis treatment center addressing adolescent needs across a continuum of care. From fully supervised Withdrawal Management all the way to Residential Treatment, our customized adolescent care is built on the latest scientific research and proven techniques to increase the likelihood of successful outcomes. Learning about Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center, you’ll find our founders have been there, where you are now, and understand that your child is an individual who needs an individualized recovery program providing safety, privacy, security, and success.