Helping a Child Who Is Using Drugs

If warning signs point to a child on drugs, it's time to take action. If you deal with possible drug use head-on, there's a very good chance your child can be helped. Don't spend time hiding from the problem. Spend your time helping your child. The faster you act, the faster your child can start to become well again.

Sit down with your child for an open discussion about Alcohol and drug use. Openly voice your suspicions to your child but avoid direct accusations. Do not have this conversation when your child is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, and make sure you sound calm and rational. This may mean waiting a day if he comes home drunk from a party, or if her room smells like Marijuana . Ask your child what's been going on in her life. Discuss ways to avoid using alcohol and other drugs in the future. If you need help during this conversation, get another family member, your child's guidance counselor, or physician involved.

Remember to reinforce your no-drug policy during the conversation. Be firm and enforce whatever discipline you've laid out in the past for violation of house rules. You should discuss ways your child can regain your lost trust: calling in, spending evenings at home, or improving grades.

Just like many adults, many young people deny their alcohol and other drug use. If you have strong evidence that your child is lying, you may want to have her evaluated by a health professional experienced in diagnosing adolescents with alcohol- and drug-related problems. If you decide to go this route, remember that you're trying to help your child. Don't make the doctor's appointment seem like a threat or a punishment.

If your child has developed a pattern of drug use or an addiction, you will probably need to seek professional help. If you do not know about drug treatment programs in your area, call your doctor, local hospital, state or local substance abuse agencies, or county mental health society for a referral. Your school district should have a substance abuse coordinator or a counselor who can refer you to treatment programs, too. Parents whose children have been through treatment programs can also provide information.

Drug addiction is now understood to be a chronic, relapsing disease. It may require a number of attempts before your child can remain drug-free. Don't despair if your child's first try doesn't produce long-lasting results. Even if it's not apparent at the time, each step brings your child closer to a healthy life.