Many triumphs and challenges come with raising your teenager. During the teenage years, it’s especially scary for parents because it’s common for substance use to begin in early adolescence. Statistics show that two-thirds of high school students have tried alcohol, and about half have reported trying marijuana. With these sorts of facts in mind, you have to remember that you’re not alone if your teen is showing signs of drug use. Keep reading to determine various interventions, so your teen gets the help they deserve.
Know the signs.
There are many things you can do if you suspect your teen is using drugs. A good first step to understand in this journey is to start with the signs your teen may display if they’re partaking in substance use. One of these signs and symptoms in young adults is frequently changing friends or friend groups.
Another thing to look out for is excessive withdrawal from school, family life, and normal interests like specific sports. Continuing, teens may get unnecessarily angry when confronted with any form of a question. Though all of these particular early warning signs of drug use in teens, it’s important to understand your teen personally to note any differences in behavior or mood. This way, you can work to intervene if needed.
Consider a school change.
If you notice that your teen is displaying these warning signs, make sure to talk with them to understand what is going on. If you feel as though your teen’s friend group is contributing to their drug use, it may be time to consider switching schools. Check out this private Catholic high school in Holmdel, NJ as a possible option for your teen.
Private schools like these may be one of the best ways to help your teen get out of their current situation and begin to start new. Unlike public schools, your teen will focus on religion classes in combination with their innovative education programs and options for athletics and academic clubs. In turn, your teen will stay on track and get on the path to continuing their education so that they pave the way of life they deserve.
Get to the root of it.
When it comes to teen drug use, it’s not something that you should shy away from. If your teen is experiencing a drug problem or if you suspect with good reason that they’re partaking in drug use, you should intervene. Make sure to stay by their side, ask how they’re doing, and try to speak with them about what’s going on. When it feels challenging to break this barrier, reach out to professional help with the assistance of a licensed counselor. These professionals will know how to best reach your child, and if there’s a reason for their drug use, they may be able to get the root cause of your child’s drug use. This is especially important if your teen’s drug use is a byproduct of mental health issues that they’re trying to escape or avoid. Take a deep breath, and remember that even if it’s hard to accept what’s happening, your child needs you during this time. Through providing the option of a counselor, you assist them in creating a line of communication for them to release how they’re feeling.
At the end of the day, you want to show up for your teen through these hardships By recognizing the drug use warning signs, considering a school change, and offering professional help you ensure that you’re working to help them. Most of all, be sure to stay by their side through any treatment program or transition so that they know they’re never alone as they work towards the life they deserve.
