How to Aid Your Son in Overcoming Drug Dependence

Substance Use Disorder in Adolescents

The issue of substance use disorder (SUD) in adolescents is a concern of increasing magnitude. Early initiation of drug use can lead to a series of adverse effects, and unfortunately, treatment disparities are evident in this demographic.

Impact of Early Substance Use

Over 90% of adults struggling with a substance use disorder initiated alcohol or drug use during their adolescence. This early introduction is associated with a greater lifetime risk of adverse effects, including school-related problems, physical health concerns, neurocognitive impairments, and mental health issues. In fact, approximately 90% of US adults dealing with an addiction started using before age 18 [2].

This alarming data underscores the need for early intervention and preventive measures for young people, especially considering the lasting effects drug dependence can have on their lives.

Treatment Disparities in Teens

Despite the need for treatment programs, only a small fraction of teenagers with SUDs receive the help they need. Just 7% of addicted teens receive treatment for their disorder [2]. Unfortunately, many families struggle to address a single problem in a teen before a second one develops. For instance, around one-third of teens with a mental illness also grapple with substance abuse.

Moreover, while drug and alcohol counseling is available in approximately 40% of juvenile correctional facilities, a study reveals that only 3.3% of the prison inmates who received treatment were rearrested in the first 6 months after being released, compared to 12.1% of inmates who didn’t receive treatment.

These disparities highlight the importance of making treatment programs more accessible and effective for all teens grappling with substance use disorders. By understanding the barriers to treatment and working to remove them, society can help ensure that every teenager has the support they need to overcome drug dependence.

Family Dynamics and Boundaries

Addressing drug dependence within a family requires the establishment of healthy boundaries and a system of accountability. These components are essential to protect the family from manipulation, break the cycle of entitlement, and hold the individual accountable for their actions Family First Intervention.

Establishing Healthy Boundaries

Creating healthy boundaries involves setting clear expectations and limits regarding acceptable behavior within the family. These boundaries are essential to protect the family from enabling the substance user and allowing them to experience the consequences of their actions. They also help prevent family members from falling back into old enabling behaviors that may have previously fueled the addiction Family First Intervention.

Without healthy boundaries, resentment may arise among family members, especially if some members adhere to the boundaries and others do not. This imbalance can impact both sides of the family differently and may cause further tension Family First Intervention.

One example of setting a boundary could be for a family to disagree with a discharge plan proposed by a treatment facility. If the clinician suggests that a young adult can return home after treatment, the family may instead advocate for a sober living house until the individual finds a job and can support themselves Family First Intervention.

Consequences and Accountability

Alongside boundaries, it's also important to establish a system of accountability, which involves implementing consequences for actions that cross these boundaries. Consequences can be a powerful motivator for change, especially when they directly impact the individual's actions related to their drug dependence.

The goal of establishing consequences is not to punish the individual but rather to help them understand the implications of their actions and encourage healthier choices. By allowing the individual to experience these consequences, they may begin to understand the impact of their substance use and be more motivated to change their behavior.

In a scenario where boundaries are crossed, the family should consistently enforce the pre-established consequences. This consistent accountability can help the individual recognize the detrimental effects of their substance use and encourage them to seek help.

Remember, supporting a loved one in overcoming drug dependence is a challenging process, and it's essential to approach it with empathy, understanding, and patience. It's also crucial to seek professional help when needed to ensure that the individual receives the most effective treatment and support.

Recognizing Signs of Substance Use

Recognizing the signs of substance use is a crucial first step in aiding a teen struggling with drug dependence. The signs can manifest in both behavioral changes and physical indicators. Being aware of these changes can help parents and caregivers intervene early and seek the necessary help.

Behavioral Changes in Teens

Changes in behavior can be early warning signs of teen substance use. These changes could include mood swings and alterations in routine or appearance. Adolescents may also exhibit withdrawal from family or friends, changes in their social circle, and an increased interest in media portrayals of drug use.

These changes may escalate rapidly, hence the importance of early detection and intervention, which can prevent casual drug use from developing into a substance use disorder.

Physical Indicators of Drug Use

In addition to behavioral changes, physical indicators can also hint at potential substance use in teens. These may include bloodshot eyes or changes in appetite [3].

Recognizing these warning signs can guide parents on how to approach their son with concerns about potential substance use and take the necessary steps towards getting professional help. Remember, open communication, education, and dialogue can effectively address misconceptions about alcohol and drug addiction.

Supporting Your Child

When it comes to aiding your son in overcoming drug dependence, support from parents is crucial. Understanding how to effectively communicate and when to seek professional help can pave the way towards recovery.

Direct Communication Approach

One of the first steps parents can take is having a direct conversation with their son. If there are reasons to suspect substance use, parents should ask questions like "Have you been drinking, vaping, or using drugs?" [4]. It's crucial to approach the conversation in a non-judgmental and understanding manner.

Understanding what's happening socially and developmentally during the teen and young adult years is vital in this conversation. Acknowledge the pressures and challenges they might be facing, and assure them of your support and willingness to help them navigate these challenges.

Recognizing the early warning signs of substance use in teenagers is paramount, as casual drug use can quickly escalate into a substance use disorder if not addressed, potentially leading to harmful consequences.

Seeking Professional Help

While direct communication is crucial, it's equally important to realize when professional intervention is necessary. Experts recommend not relying on at-home drug testing if you're a parent worried about your child's drug use. Instead, consider seeking help from healthcare providers or mental health professionals who specialize in addiction and substance use disorders.

These professionals can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your child's situation, determine the extent of the substance use, and suggest appropriate treatment options. They can also provide guidance and support to parents, helping them navigate their child's recovery journey.

Remember, it's important for parents to be aware of the types of behaviors or symptoms that could indicate teen drug abuse or substance abuse, which may include both behavioral signs (e.g., changes in routine, withdrawal from family or friends) and physical indicators (e.g., bloodshot eyes, changes in appetite) [3].

Supporting a child struggling with substance use can be a challenging and stressful experience. Still, with open communication, professional support, and persistent care, parents can play a significant role in their son's journey towards recovery.

Effective Treatment Approaches

When looking for ways to help your son with his drug dependence, understanding the most effective treatment approaches is crucial. This includes family-based therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, among others.

Family-Based Therapy

Family-based therapy is a well-established intervention for treating adolescent substance use disorders (SUDs). This approach is particularly effective at promoting treatment attendance and therapeutic alliance, as it involves the entire family in the recovery process. One specific form of family-based therapy is Multidimensional Family Therapy (MDFT). MDFT is a psychosocial treatment that holistically addresses individual, family, and environmental factors contributing to substance use and related problems. Among youth with severe SUDs, MDFT has been found to be more beneficial when compared to a variety of other treatment modalities [1].

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is another well-established treatment for adolescent substance use. It can be offered in both individual and group formats. This approach aims to help individuals understand their behaviors and emotions, develop coping strategies, and make positive changes in their lives.

Recent work has focused on third-wave cognitive-behavioral therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. These therapies emphasize acceptance and mindfulness techniques, which can be especially beneficial for adolescents struggling with substance use [1].

In addition to these therapies, Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) are considered standalone treatments for adolescent SUDs. However, they may be more effective when combined with other treatments such as family interventions, acceptance and commitment therapy, and contingency management [1].

The choice of treatment should be based on the individual's needs and circumstances. It's recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or a mental health professional to determine the most suitable approach.

Resources for Support

When navigating the path of helping a child overcome drug dependence, it's essential to have access to various resources. These resources can offer immediate assistance, provide guidance, and connect individuals with professional services tailored to their specific needs.

National Helplines and Hotlines

One of the primary resources to consider is national helplines and hotlines. These services provide immediate assistance, advice, and referrals to appropriate treatment facilities. For example, the SAMHSA National Helpline, a leading helpline in the United States, received 833,598 calls in 2020, a 27% increase from the previous year [5].

In Canada, there are additional resources for parents looking to support their children with substance use issues. These include services such as Parent-to-Parent Support, Online Parent Support Groups, and the helpline 1-866-366-3667.

There are also specialized services available for overdose prevention, substance use, and tobacco cessation. These services can be accessed Canada-wide by calling 1-800-668-6868 or texting 686868.

Culturally Sensitive Services

Recognizing the importance of culturally sensitive services, there are programs specifically designed for First Nation, Inuit, or Métis individuals struggling with substance use. These include the National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program and the National Youth Solvent Abuse Program.

Moreover, the Canadian Mental Health Association offers a Naloxone 101 Toolkit, which provides information on how, why, and when to use a naloxone kit, as well as guidance on where to acquire one for free [6].

For those seeking harm reduction services, centers can be contacted at 1-902-470-8888 or 1-888-470-5888. Additionally, the Bridge the Gapp program offers support at 1-833-325-1338, both aiming to assist individuals struggling with substance use.

These resources, among others, provide essential support for parents and their children struggling with substance use. They empower families with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the journey to recovery.

References

[1]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7241222/

‍[2]: https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/teen-addiction/drug/substance-abuse-treatment-options/

‍[3]: https://www.hazeldenbettyford.org/articles/warning-signs-teen-substance-use

‍[4]: https://drugfree.org/article/signs-of-drug-use-in-teens/

‍[5]: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

‍[6]: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/substance-use/get-help-with-substance-use.html