Prescription Drug Abuse with Teens - How to Cope

Innocence defines the age of twelve, so we think. Unfortunately in some cases a child's innocence no longer exists because they have chosen to do drugs. Prescription drugs are among the highest used substances behind marijuana. Young teens are now relying on them to get a "safe high." The ignorance they carry is what makes them vulnerable to the truth. Many of them believe they are safer then street drugs because they're prescribed by doctors. The ability to get a prescription drug is extremely easy. According to the national survey on drug use and health (NSDUH) teens that use prescription drugs got them from friends or family, and some would even steal them from medicine cabinets. This makes them much easier to get then street drugs. NSDUH also states that females' ages 12-17 are more prone to trying prescription drugs than males. Knowing that your loved one is using prescription drugs can be difficult. There are ways to cope with this situation. If you are a young teen that feels you are addicted to them, then it's not too late to get help.

Why do people do prescription drugs? Many people believe that they need something more to become something better. Teens are at a point in life where they are finding out who they are. Some may compare themselves to their peers, and think that they aren't good enough. Many want to fit in and desire acceptance. This is the road that leads them towards trouble. Many females that feel overweight will even use believing that it's the solution to weight loss. Some teens will experiment because they're told that it's easier to concentrate while studying, it will increase alertness, and some use them to sleep better.

Once someone becomes addicted those they love witness the repercussions. Personalities become altered, and the person they once knew no longer exists. Helping someone recover from drug addiction is extremely difficult, due to the fact that it can't be forced onto the individual. There are ways to reach out to your loved one and to cope with this matter. It takes time and patience, and sometimes tough love.

Ways to Cope as a Parent:

1. Try talking with your child. Let them know that you are suspicious of what they might be doing, and ask them if your suspicions are correct. In some cases, they will be honest and some might deny it. If they deny, don't let it fool you. Many drug addicts do lie. Do research, observe, and educate yourself on the effects it has on a person. Keep a diary of the changes you see or any dubious acts you witness.

2. If your child is hanging out with a new group of people, watch them closely. Hanging out with the wrong crowd will only make the situation worse. If you are a parent, become strict with the rules (Ex. earlier curfew, not going out on school nights, etc...) As long as they are live under your roof, they abide by your rules.

3. When fighting this battle, it's important to not feel guilty. They may manipulate you into thinking you're hurting them. An addict will instigate in order to get what they want. Stand your ground, and stick to your plan. Attempting to make a difference is a courageous step, and in the end they will thank you. It may take a while, and you may be the villain to them. This is only the drugs talking. It's not who they really are, and you can't stop until there better.

4. Keep letting them know that you love them and care for their well being. But don't give into their needs like money. If you are someone that they trust in asking money from, cut yourself off. You're only encouraging their act by giving it to them. The more money they have the more they can buy. If they claim that they aren't using the money for that, don't let them fool you. Do your research, and feel free to request receipts if you have to. This will make them nervous about turning towards you for such things.

5. Sometimes ignorance will keep a person in the dark about the truth. If someone believes that something won't hurt them then the urge to continue will linger. Tell them what can happen by doing prescription drugs. Talk to them about the consequences, and the effects it has on their body. Unfortunately, many teens believe that there invisible. This is why they are prone to experimentation. Don't let it discourage you from having the talk. After educating yourself, educate them.

6. Contact their school. If you are a parent that doesn't normally keep track of attendance, grades, or the progress of your child. Start. Talk with counselors and whoever else may be of help. Let them know what's going on. Now is not the time to try and protect them from getting in trouble. If they are taken away by school police, then you need to let it happen. Sometimes embarrassment and guilt is the first step into getting help, especially if they aren't used to harsh consequences.

There are many resources available. Treatment programs have proven to be very effective. The person that needs the help has to want it. For some this is where tough love comes in. Stay strong, find a plan you believe will work, and stick to it. It won't be an easy fight, and you may ask yourself if you're doing the right thing. Just remember saving a life is always the right thing.

If you are someone that is dependent on prescription drugs, then find the strength to get help. Don't let it take over your life. Ask yourself why you started in the first place, and be honest about it. Sometimes there are deeper feelings within that lead a person in the wrong direction. Understand what those feelings are and why you have them. There are many healthy things in life that can make you feel better. Be positive and confident that there is help out there.