How to Confront Teenage Drug Use

In a 2023 report, 8.33% of teenagers aged between 12 and 17 nationwide admitted to using illicit drugs. The use of drugs among adolescents seems to be on the rise in the US which has many parents concerned.   Teenage substance use disorder can cause family dynamics to fall apart, especially if parents don't know how to confront the situation. If you've found drugs in your teenager's room it's important not to react emotionally because it could lead your child to take more drugs or run away from home.  To assist you, we've provided important information as to why there's a surge in teen drug use in the US as this will help you understand your child's situation. There are also confrontation tips to follow if you've found your teenager in the possession of drugs. 

Why is There a Surge in Teenage Drug Use? 

In some situations, teenagers may decide to take drugs as an experiment. As a result, they may like the feeling it gives them and can quickly become addicted. Experts also suggest that teenagers take drugs to relieve boredom.  However, in other situations, teenagers who have mental health problems may have a higher risk of becoming addicted to drugs. Areas where there are gangs and increased crime rates have a higher risk of teenage drug use.  Teenagers who experience depression may also take illegal drugs to feel good and to relieve stress and anxiety. 

What Can Be Done About Teenagers Who Use Drugs?  

One of the ways you can mitigate teenage drug use is to become a role model to your child. If you take drugs, they're more likely to take part in substance abuse. Another way you can stop teenagers from taking illegal substances is to teach your child the dangers of taking drugs. Pay attention to your teen and always have honest conversations with them about their mental health and stress levels. You can prevent your teenager from taking drugs if you're always present and ensuring they're well-educated. Share information with them from the National Institute on Drug Abuse to lower the risk of them being curious about experimenting with illegal drugs. 

Can Teenage Drug Use Be Improved Before It Gets Worse?

Early intervention can stop your teenager's drug use from becoming an addiction. Make sure they know the exact dangers of drug use such as overdoses, being exposed to diseases, and the potential for organ damage and cognitive impairment.  If your teenager has been taking drugs for quite some time, you may need to send them to a residential treatment center. These facilities monitor teenagers to prevent them from using drugs and to wean them off of substances in a safe environment. 

The Signs Your Teenager is Taking Drugs

As a parent, you may start to notice that your child is acting out of character. Sometimes behavioral changes can be due to depression or stress so it's important to be sure your child is using drugs before you confront them. Here are the warning signs you need to look out for:

• Your child has drug paraphernalia like weed grinders, cocaine spoons, or snuff bullets. 
• Changes in physical appearance such as dark rings around the eyes. 
• A shift in their social circles. 
• An increase in anger and agitation. 
• Missing items in the house as teenagers may sell objects to buy drugs. 
• Drastic weight gain or weight loss.  
• Lying about where they go. 
• Prescription pills or alcohol consistently go missing. 

If you've noticed all of these signs it may be time to start searching your teenager's room to find evidence of their substance abuse. 

How to Confront Your Teenager 

Your first instinct when finding illegal drugs on your teenager or in their room is to lash out and reprimand them. While feelings of anger and disappointment are natural, reacting negatively may push your child further away from you. To assist you, we've provided valuable ways you can confront your teenager in a healthy way. 

One-On-One Conversation

Sometimes a one-on-one conversation with your troubled teen is the best way to figure out why they've chosen to take drugs. You must remind your teens they can trust you and that you will help them through the difficult times they're going through.  Drug addiction can cause your teenager's emotions to fluctuate so they may get angry at you for invading their space. But it's important to stand your ground and to handle the situation with care. Speak calmly and try to have an adult conversation about drugs with your child. 

Ask Questions and Keep an Open Mind 

If your child starts opening up to you about their drug use, listen attentively and ask as many questions as you can so you can fully understand their situation. You should also keep an open mind because your child may reveal information that can be difficult for you to hear. 

Consider an Intervention 

Sometimes a one-on-one discussion doesn't always work. This is when you need to consider an intervention where you bring all the family members together to speak to your child about their drug use.  Interventions can be a way to show your teen that there are people who love and care for them. Make it known that they're not a bad person and that they have the family's full support no matter what. 

Be Mindful of Your Family History 

Studies show that genes can account for half of a person's risk of substance addiction. However, the risk of drug abuse in teenagers increases if they're surrounded by family who take drugs and drink alcohol. Therefore, when confronting your teenager, you must be mindful of family history and how it could have played a part in your child becoming addicted to substances. 

Seek Professional Help 

If you're not sure how to speak to your child about drugs or how to get them to stop taking substances, you can seek help from professionals who specialize in teen substance abuse. Therapy is one way you can understand how your child started taking drugs and ways you can help your teen through their situation. 

Final Thoughts

Dealing with a teenager who has an addiction to drugs can be a difficult situation for any parent. But you don't have to handle it on your own. If you want to rehabilitate your teenager, contact Liahona Acadamy today to book your child into our residential treatment center. Or find out how you can book a family therapy session so you can talk to your child about drug abuse in a safe environment.