SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Substance abuse among teenagers is a challenging and alarming issue that requires prompt attention from parents and caregivers. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of substance abuse early on is crucial to provide appropriate support and intervention for your teenager.


James Q. Wilson, an expert on Public policy says the following about substance abuse: 

“Even now, when the dangers of drug use are well understood, many educated people still discuss the drug problem in almost every way except the right way. They talk about the “costs” of drug use and the “socioeconomic factors” that shape that use. They rarely speak plainly—drug use is wrong because it’s immoral and it is immoral because it enslaves the mind and destroys the soul.

Recognizing the warning signs of substance abuse:

1. Behavioral changes:

  • Sudden decline in academic performance
  • Defiance towards authority figures and rules
  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
  • Increased secretive behavior
  • Lying and stealing (especially money)
  • Unexplained absences and trips
  • Sleep problems, up at night, not in their beds when they are suppose to be
  • Bizarre, aggressive or violent behavior, especially when high or needing to be high

2. Physical signs:

  • Bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils
  • Frequent nosebleeds without any explanation
  • Sudden and unexplained weight loss or gain
  • Poor personal hygiene and an unusual smell on breath or clothes
  • Dental decay

3. Emotional and psychological shifts:

  • Extreme mood swings, irritability, or unexplained anger
  • Increased agitation or restlessness
  • Unusual lethargy or lack of motivation
  • Withdrawal from family and friends

4. Social changes:

  • Sudden changes in friend groups for the worse
  • Loss of interest in positive social activities
  • Increased isolation and spending more time alone
  • Run-ins with law enforcement or involvement in risky behaviors

Treatment of Substance Abuse:

Step 1: Acknowledge the Problem

The treatment of drug abuse begins with the crucial initial step of acknowledging the problem. Adolescents must recognize and accept that their substance use is problematic, as this acknowledgment is the foundation for engagement in substance abuse treatment. Because denial of drug abuse is almost universal among adolescents, this phase of treatment almost always involves a urine drug test to establish the diagnosis.


Step 2: Seek professional help

If you suspect your teenager is struggling with substance abuse, consult us. We can help. We will usually recommend a psychiatrist who has specialized training in adolescent substance abuse. Many people who abuse substances do so because of underlying psychiatric problems such as ADHD, Bipolar disease or a history of childhood trauma, including physical and/or sexual abuse. Treating these underlying problems is important to help stop the drug abuse. We can help arrange the needed referral.


Step 3: Detox

When necessary, the treatment process may involve detoxification, particularly if the substance involved causes physical dependence. Medical professionals manage detoxification to address withdrawal symptoms safely. Detoxification can vary in length and severity, necessitating tailored medical interventions such as medications that manage symptoms, reduce cravings, or treat co-occurring psychiatric conditions. Inpatient residential treatment may be required in some cases to ensure compliance and individualized care during this phase.


Step 4: Therapy

Therapeutic interventions form a core component of the treatment plan. Various forms of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing, are used to help adolescents identify, understand, and change unhealthy behaviors associated with substance use. Therapy also aids in developing effective coping strategies, enhancing emotional regulation, and increasing motivation for recovery. Family therapy can be especially beneficial, fostering open and honest communication within the family unit and addressing any negative family dynamics that may contribute to the substance use.


Step 5: Education

Education on addiction and recovery is important for treatment, reducing stigma, and supporting recovery. Adolescents and their families should learn about addiction's effects, including health, social, academic, legal issues, and risks like motor vehicle accidents. Understanding these can improve treatment compliance and encourage open discussions. These dangers include:

  • drug dependency and addiction
  • heart and liver injury
  • dental decay and tooth loss
  • motor vehicle accidents
  • loss of friends
  • dropping out of school
  • loss of employment (vocational failure)
  • legal problems leading to incarceration
  • death


Step 6: Ongoing Support

Long-term recovery success requires ongoing support and a solid aftercare plan. Adolescents should continue with outpatient treatment, attend 12-step programs or similar support groups, and consider sober living environments. It's important to offer support in a non-judgmental way and let natural consequences reinforce responsible behavior. For example, if someone drives under the influence and has an accident, don't replace the vehicle immediately. They need to earn back driving privileges, both financially and by abstaining from substance abuse. Prematurely restoring these privileges can enable further substance abuse.



Sharing in the recovery process together strengthens family bonds and helps provide a supportive environment. A healthy family supportive family environment helps lead to long-lasting recovery. Encourage a healthy lifestyle by promoting alternatives to substance use such as engaging in physical activities such as athletics, hobbies, and social events. Encourage the development of healthy coping mechanisms and stress-management techniques. These things make substance abuse less likely.