Recent statistics indicate that well over 21 million American adolescents face a serious substance abuse disorder annually. Out of this staggering number of youths, relatively few reach out to receive the help they deserve. How can you recognize the signs of teen drug abuse? What can you do to help your struggling teen? The information below will address these important questions more fully.
Signs of Teen Drug Abuse
The odds are that you know your teenager better than anyone else. Therefore, there are several signs you’re likely to pick up on if your teen is struggling with substance abuse. Consider the following clues that can alert you to a potential problem.
Poor or Failing Academic Performance
If your teen always performs well in school and suddenly displays poor grades or discipline issues, this can be a sign of a substance abuse issue. Overall, the effects of addictive substances can cause poor concentration, memory deficits, and problems with mental clarity that translate to a poor performance in school.
Risky Behavior or Angry Outbursts
Moodiness is typical during the teenage years. However, severe outbursts or risky behaviors can signal a cry for help. Therefore, pay attention to self-destructive behaviors or actions that seem out of the norm for your teen.
Loss of Interest in Favorite Activities
A teen who suddenly loses interests in their favorite sports or hobbies may be struggling with substance abuse. In addition, your teen may start becoming reclusive and withdrawn, preferring to spend most of their time alone.
Poor Personal Appearance
Those struggling with substance abuse often display issues with hygiene. For example, if your teen previously took great care of their appearance, you may notice they suddenly appear unkempt. If the drugs or alcohol cause loss of appetite, they may also experience unintentional weight loss.
These are just a few of many different clues that show serious problems exist. However, your teen doesn’t need to display all of these behaviors in order to exhibit a problem with substance abuse.
Today, there are over 42 million adolescents in the United States, and a significant number of those adolescents are abusing drugs and alcohol. If your loved one is using drugs or alcohol, it is critical that they get help as soon as possible. Getting help today could mean the difference between a life spent well on their dreams or wasted in prison or death.
Loading…
The US government estimates that 376,000 teens in the United States have used hallucinogens in the past year.
At Zelus Recovery, we offer a variety of therapy programs, including:
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Relationship therapy
In addition to these treatment programs, we treat multiple addictions, such as:
- Marijuana addiction
- Opioid addiction
- Opiate addiction
- Adderall addiction
- Alcohol addiction
How to Help Your Teen Who is Struggling with Substance Abuse
The best way you can help your teen who is struggling with substance abuse is to let them know you care. Remain present for their emotional and physical needs as much as possible, even during times when they push you away. Try your best to keep the lines of communication open so they feel free to speak to you about their problems. Ultimately, try to avoid blaming yourself as you seek professional help for your family.
Why is Seeking Professional Help Important?
Experiencing life with a teen drug abuse issue can be difficult for the entire family. The repercussions affect the whole household. As a parent, it’s normal to feel isolation when trying to cope with this. However, professional treatment centers can provide the support, knowledge, and experience necessary to successfully overcome this problem and bring joy to your entire family once again.
Of the 4 million teens in the United States who struggled with drug use in 2018, about half a million received treatment.
Don’t wait for drugs or alcohol to ruin your teen’s life. Contact Zelus Recovery today to get addiction treatment for your teen.
About Zelus Recovery
Zelus Recovery is an addiction rehab center providing in-depth guidance for adolescents and young adults. Zelus Recovery is in the heart of Meridian, so if you’re looking for Boise addiction counseling and live in Idaho, our facility is ideal. By focusing on early intervention techniques, supportive family programs, and intensive outpatient program therapeutic protocols, Zelus Recovery helps those suffering from substance abuse recover and regain balance.
Don’t allow addiction to control your life. You can overcome your addiction by seeking professional treatment from a high-quality drug rehabilitation facility. Contact Zelus Recovery today at 866-365-4436 to find out how we can help you get on the road to a full recovery.
