There are a lot of reasons why teenagers turn to drugs. Whether it’s peer pressure, experimentation, curiosity, stress, depression, boredom, rebellion, problems at home or at school, or a combination of the above, unfortunately, it does happen. Once it has happened though, what is most important is making sure it doesn’t become a habit, addiction, or regular occurrence. If it is past that point and it has become a recurring thing, there is no reason to give up hope, and one of the best decisions you can make as a parent is to give them the option to talk to somebody about it. They may be hesitant at first towards the idea, but the realization will soon come, that regardless, it is nice having someone to talk to about what they are going through and how they are feeling.
Some of the habits/addictions that teens struggle with can include the following:
- Alcohol abuse
- Smoking/Nicotine use
- Marijuana
- Synthetic Marijuana
- Other Illicit drug abuse
- Salvia
- Adderall
- Narcotics
- Xanax
- Hydrocodone
- Other prescription drugs abuse
Here are some tips as to how you should handle it if you believe or know that your child is struggling with one of the above…
Talk to them
Even though our teens have a tendency to push us away rather than want to sit down and talk to us, it’s still important to try. There are a lot of cases in which they do want to open up, but they are afraid, or confused, or unsure of themselves. You should try and ensure them that they shouldn’t be afraid but that you only want to help, that you only want to understand what they are going through and how they are feeling. One of the most important things you can do is to make sure you do a lot of listening whenever/if they finally do decide to open up to you.
Ensure them it’s going to be ok
Teens have a multitude of emotions and feelings flowing through their veins as they are experiencing hormonal changes as well as trying to discover who they are. Being a teenager can be difficult, and you need to ensure them that it is going to be okay. Make sure they know that you are on their side, that you only want the best for them and that you aren’t working against them, but for them.
Suggest they try talking with someone else
Commonly, talking to our teens ourselves isn’t enough. Even if we feel like we get through to them, frankly, we aren’t experts. This is why many parents are turning to teen drug management therapy in Dallas. Speak with your teen about going and talking to a professional. Make sure you make them feel as comfortable as they can with the idea. If they are against it, tell them to at least just try it out, because many teens soon realize after a few sessions that it is quite nice to have someone to listen to them and all of the feelings they are experiencing.
If you are looking for a trusted place to take your teen for drug management therapy in Dallas, look no further. Here at Lifeworks, we are a trusted, caring, and passionate team of experts who are eager to help you improve yours and/or your child’s well being. Contact us today, and let us help you get things back on track.
