How You Can Help Stop Teenage Drug Abuse: Their Life Depends on It

Drug abuse among teenagers is a growing trend. Drugs are made readily available to our teens just about anywhere. Why do teens abuse drugs? There can be many reasons. They may want to fit in with a certain group or friends, they make like how the drug makes them feel, or they may see it as something grown up to do. But whatever the reason the outcome is always the same. Drug abuse can cause serious and lifelong consequences.

There are many health problems and social issues associated with drug abuse.Teens who abuse drugs will normally do poor on their schoolwork, they can lose friends, and they can potentially cause harm to others as well as themselves.

When it comes to stopping teenage drug abuse the parents hold the most influence. Teens who make the decision to not use drugs usually have a strong family value system. It is very crucial to have open and honest communication with your teen about drugs and how you feel about it. Set ground rules and state the consequences if the rules are broken.

There are many important steps to take to stay informed and connected to your teen. Always listen to them and hear what they are saying. This is the most important thing you can do for your child is to be there and listen. Ask your teen questions and find out what is going on with them and their friends. Go to their sports events and plays. Give them your encouragement.

There are some signs to look for if you have a suspicion your child could be abusing drugs. Some of these signs are if they act withdrawn, tired and forego personal hygiene. If they have become hostile and disrespectful of you and the set rules. Perhaps they have even become verbally and physically abusive. Do they have a new set of friends? Excessive weight gain or weight loss could be indicative of drug abuse, as well as not eating or sleeping.

If your child has shown some of the above signs and you think your teen is in trouble there is help available. You can contact the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention at #1-301-443-0365 or the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment at #1-800-662 HELP.

It is never to late to reach your teen. Do not give up on them. If they are in trouble this is the time they need you the most.

Sources:

http://www.health.msn.com