What Are Drug Withdrawals?

Drugs and alcohol can certainly ruin someone’s life. Sometimes it’s a long process, and for others it can happen relatively quickly. If you are looking to quit using drugs or alcohol but are scared of withdrawals, please don’t let that be the reason to not get sober. Unfortunately, there is only one way out of addiction, and it’s to get through withdrawals. Different substances have different withdrawal patterns, and learning how to deal with them can help save a life. Fortunately, there are plenty of addiction treatment facilities that can help you manage withdrawal safely and comfortably. Addiction is a powerful thing but someone that is determined to recover is just as strong.

 What Is Withdrawal?

Withdrawal is defined as the physical and psychological effects that happen to a person and the brain following the abrupt discontinuation of use of a drug or alcohol. This means that when you stop using a drug or other substances that alter your mental or physical state of mind, the way your body reacts is the withdrawal from the substance. Withdrawal is something that all people experience to some degree when they do stop using drugs or alcohol. Withdrawal can vary from drug to drug and from person to person.

Withdrawal can happen to anyone that has been using drugs or alcohol, then either loses access to them, or stops using them all together. Withdrawal can be incredibly scary and can even lead to death in some cases. If you are dealing with withdrawal you can experience mild to extreme side effects, depending on the substance you’re abusing. Above It All strongly suggests detoxing at an addiction treatment facility and not on your own. 

What Is Detox?

The process of detoxification can cause your body to go into withdrawal, as it’s the process of removing toxic substances from your body. Detox at a treatment facility is led by medical professionals to ensure your safety. Detoxing at an addiction treatment facility is also the best way to manage the pain of withdrawal. You’ll be monitored 24/7 by medical staff who are experts in addiction. Above It All is here to match you with a treatment facility that has a professional detox program so you can start your recovery journey the right way. Detoxing at a facility is much safer than detoxing at home and experiencing unmonitored withdrawal symptoms. After you complete detox, the next recommending step is residential inpatient treatment. Once you experience withdrawal, it’s important to learn the coping skills that will help keep you sober, so you never have to withdraw again.

Withdrawing From A Substance

Different drugs create different withdrawal symptoms. See below for the most common withdrawal symptoms associated with the most commonly abused drugs:

  • Cocaine: Depression, feelings of hopelessness, and feeling restless. On average these symptoms last about seven to ten days. 
  • Alcohol: Short term tremors and seizures. Severe alcoholics can experience wet brain during withdrawal or even death. 
  • Opioids: Flu like symptoms; body aches, runny nose, fever, and vomiting. 
  • Benzodiazepines: Anxiety, depression, and seizures. It’s important to not stop using these drugs cold turkey. 

Seeking Addiction Treatment

For those that are struggling with addiction, seeking treatment is going to help you work through the substance abuse and the issues that caused the addiction in the start. Above It All is a free addiction placement service that helps you find the program that is going to work for you and help you recover. Our 24/7 help line is answered by addiction experts who can answer any question you may have about treatment. We offer matching services for detoxification, residential inpatient treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, outpatient, and sober living. Reach out to us today to get the help you deserve! 

How To Seek Treatment For Yourself

It can be extremely difficult to admit you have a problem with drug abuse or alcohol. Most people experience feelings of shame and embarrassment when it comes to admitting they have a problem, so if you’re reading this and feel that way, you aren’t alone. 

Above It All is here to let you know that no one is perfect and you shouldn’t be ashamed to look for help. It’s never too early or late to seek addiction treatment. Because addiction takes many shapes and forms, there are a ton of different treatment options out there available for you that you should be aware of. 

How to Find Addiction Treatment for Yourself

First and foremost, if you find yourself here, you should be very proud of yourself for taking the necessary steps to get better. It takes a tremendous amount of strength to not only admit you need help, but to actually do something about it.

When seeking addiction treatment, a good first step to take is educating yourself on the various types of treatment available. The main forms of addiction treatment are detoxification, inpatient/residential, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient. The overall goal of each form of treatment is the same but the length and times of the programs will vary. The type of treatment you choose will be based on what you’re addicted to. For example, not all substance abuse disorders require detox. To start research you can perform a simple google search, use an addiction resource such as Above It All, call your primary care physician, or ask family and friends. 

Determining the Best Program for You

Now that you are ready to find the best addiction treatment program for you, be selfish. Put yourself first during this process and really think hard about what you think will make you happy during treatment. Maybe location is important for you. There are plenty of addiction facilities near the beach and immersed in nature. Maybe the structure of the facility is most important to you. Some facilities offer shared rooms and some have private only bedrooms. If you are big on mindfulness and meditation, you can choose a program that incorporates those things.

After you narrow down a location, you can start to think about what kind of addiction treatment you want to pursue:

Inpatient or residential programs: Inpatient and residential treatment programs on average last about 30-60 days (there are longer programs as well). During this kind of treatment you will live at the facility. Some programs have shared rooms and some have private ones. You will eat all of your meals here and attend individual and group therapy sessions. If you require detox, you will do this at the beginning of your stay under medical supervision. This is the safest way to detox off of a substance. These programs are beneficial because staff is always onsite to help you, should you need anything. You are also removing yourself from society for a period of time. A lot of people think of this program as a good break and can focus 100% on recovery. 

Intensive outpatient programs: Often shortened to an IOP, is a program that can be used as a transition step once you leave inpatient or an alternative to an inpatient facility. If you attend an IOP program, you will go onsite to the facility multiple times a week for about 4-6 hours at a time. You will participate in individual and group therapy, like you would in inpatient, but you eat and sleep at home.

Outpatient programs: These programs provide the most flexibility in terms of treatment. Outpatient can be a transition step once you leave an IOP or can be used as an alternative to inpatient or IOP. If you are a single parent or cannot afford to take off of work, this is a great treatment option for you. Clients attend outpatient a few times a week (less than IOP) and therapy sessions can last anywhere from 4-6 hours.There are lots of types of outpatient treatment, including support groups, and the goal is to keep you sober.

Things to Consider

There are a few things regarding your addiction to keep in mind when seeking treatment: 

  • How severe is my addiction? 
  • Do I need detox?
  • Do I have any mental health issues like depression or PTSD?
  • The type of insurance I have
  • How long do I think I should be in treatment? 
  • Will I need a referral to a program?

All of the above mentioned are factors that will help determine the best course of treatment for you. 

Don’t Wait to Get Help

At Above It All, we are a free addiction treatment placement service that provides those struggling with substance abuse assistance in finding the right treatment for them. We provide a 24/7 comprehensive treatment matching service. Our program includes admissions, insurance verification, transportation assistance, and care management from start to finish. If you are looking for help finding addiction treatment and rehab in California, please give us a call! 

What Causes Addiction?

Nobody starts out with the intention of becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol, but the current addiction statistics are striking. Almost one in ten people are addicted to drugs or alcohol in the United States. Today addiction is recognized to be a chronic disease that occurs when the brain’s chemistry and function are altered. People can become addicted to alcohol, street drugs such as cocaine or heroin, prescription drugs such as opioids and benzodiazepines, and even behaviors such as eating, sex, or gambling. Addiction goes beyond lacking ‘self-control’. Like any disease, addiction is best combated with professional help. 

What is Addiction?

Addiction occurs when repeated behavior such as substance abuse rewires the brain to believe it needs the substance to stay alive. The brain interprets all pleasure the same way, regardless of what is causing the brain to release dopamine. Actions and substances that release dopamine in the brain include drugs, eating, sex, and receiving a monetary reward. 

An addict repeatedly abuses drugs or alcohol because their brain needs it. When the brain doesn’t receive the substances, it sets off cravings. The cravings don’t go away until the drugs or alcohol are taken again. 

What Causes Addiction?

Several common causes of addiction include: 

1. The Pleasure Principle: This is one of the main causes of addiction. Addictive substances impact how the brain registers pleasure when it comes to drugs and alcohol. The brain registers all pleasure the same way, releasing dopamine. Eventually, this pleasurable response is released so consistently that it drives someone to seek out this substance constantly. Addictive drugs provide a shortcut to this pleasure system, flooding the area with dopamine, which gets someone hooked on drugs or alcohol. 

2. Learning and Memory: Once this pleasure signal is triggered, a transition process takes place where someone becomes hooked on drugs or alcohol. This path is called learning and memory. Dopamine interacts with other transmitters in the brain, taking over the brain’s learning system. This learning system is important because it also drives other processes that people need to survive. Eventually, the brain learns that it requires that pleasurable substance to survive. Memory sets in as addictive substances overload this circuit, leading to addiction over the course of repeated exposures.

3. The Drive Associated with Compulsion: As people slide deeper into the clutches of addiction, compulsion takes over. This is the loss of all control associated with regulating the use of an addictive substance. The pleasure starts to subside; however, the memory persists, leading to compulsion. Cravings continue, snaring those who are pursuing sobriety. People have a compulsive drive to seek out that addictive substance. They will sacrifice relationships with family members and friends. They will empty their bank accounts. They will do anything to seek out that next fix.

These three causes work together to snare somebody in the trap of addiction. Fortunately, recovery is possible. With the help of trained professionals, people can not only get sober but maintain sobriety in California.

Let Us Help!

At Above It All, we are a free addiction treatment placement service that offers 24/7 assistance to those struggling with drug abuse. We can provide you with help in finding the right treatment for your needs in the Southern California area. With the help of our comprehensive treatment matching service, we will help you get the help that you deserve. Our program includes admissions, insurance verification, transportation assistance, and care management that will be with you every step of the way. If you are looking for help with addiction treatment in the Southern California area, please give us a call today!

Most Common Signs of Addiction

Addiction is something that affects not only the individual who has the addiction but also those who regularly interact with or love that person. This includes friends, families, and coworkers. It’s often these people that surround the addicted person who first notice signs and become concerned. This is because the addict themselves are often in a state of denial. Do you know what to look for if you think your loved one may need drug abuse addiction treatment?

What is Addiction?

Addiction is a physical and psychological dependency on something, generally drugs or alcohol. Substance abuse use starts out casual, but as the body becomes used to the substance, it will then require a large amount for the individual to receive the same reaction. This dependency will continue to escalate over time until the individual can no longer feel “normal” unless they are using drugs or alcohol. Their life begins to center around planning for, finding, and using the substance. If they try to stop they go through physical withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms don’t subside until the substance leaves their system or they use it again. 

What Are Some Common Signs?

Addiction affects everyone differently, but there are several signs you can watch for that indicate addiction treatment is necessary. Below are the most common: 

Personality and Activity Changes

Drug or alcohol addiction may cause a person to appear edgy when they do not have the substance. They may start sleeping more often or not at all. Bursts of irritability can occur, especially if their drug abuse is mentioned. A person who has always been dependable may start arriving late or they may not show up at all. This is especially true if the event is someplace where they can not use what they are addicted to. For example, a parent who has never missed the kid’s school events may suddenly stop going because he can’t drink while there. 

Isolation and Secrecy

As a person starts to realize they may have a problem, or if those around notice, the person may isolate themselves. They will participate in drinking or drug activity alone and hide as much as possible from loved ones. They may pull away, stop accepting invitations, and create excuses not to attend events or get-togethers. They may disappear for hours and refuse to tell anyone where they have been. Anger may result if you confront the issue. They may suddenly need money but give no explanation for why, or where their money has been spent.

Drastic Physical Changes

As substance abuse continues to worsen, you will likely notice drastic physical changes. Eyes may always be red and pupils dilated. Weight loss is also a very common sign. This is the kind of weight loss that seems to happen quickly and without apparent cause. Clothing may seem to hang on the individual. Personal hygiene may become lax or they’ll wear the same clothes for several days without changing.

Inability to Quit

The individual may have tried to stop using drugs or alcohol at least once and then returned to the drug activity. When confronted, most people will deny how bad their addiction is, and say they can quit anytime they want. Some even try to prove this, but in the end, they return to the behavior because not using becomes uncomfortable. Addiction has a powerful hold on its victim.

Let Us Help You Find Treatment

Above It All Treatment is a 24/7 referral service that will help you or your loved one find the best resources to help deal with substance abuse. We have a comprehensive list of drug addiction treatment centers in the California area. Substance abuse doesn’t have to continue ruling your life. Contact us now to receive free guidance to get help for your substance abuse. We take our matching service seriously and will work to see that you are guided toward a facility that can best meet your needs. Contact us today!

Drug Abuse And Mental Illness

Mental illness among drug addicts is a common and escalating issue. When someone suffers from a mental illness alongside a drug or alcohol addiction, it is categorized as dual-diagnosis. Those struggling with mental illness are 2x as likely to abuse drugs and alcohol when compared to the general populous. A variety of scenarios can be included in the complex cause-and-effect relationship between these two areas.

Relationship Between Drug Abuse And Mental Illness

The possible relationships between drug abuse and mental illness as defined by the National Institute on Drug Abuse:

  • A common origin may be apparent for both disorders
  • Drug and alcohol abuse may exacerbate or cause mental illness
  • Mental illness may lead to substance abuse when subjects self-medicate with drugs and alcohol in an effort to ease the side effects of medication or alleviate symptoms of the disorder at hand

Common Origins Of Mental Diagnosis And Substance Abuse

When a single cause is apparent for both disorders, it is often one of the following:

  • Areas of the brain have been linked to both drug abuse and mental illness
  • Some patients are more susceptible to drug abuse and mental illness as a result of environmental factors, including childhood stressors and family issues
  • A genetic predisposition to both substance abuse and mental illness disorders

Consequences Of Substance Abuse With Mental Illness

Mental illness and Co-morbid substance abuse can result in a variety of consequences, including failure to respond to treatment, medication noncompliance, damaged relationships with loved ones and episodes of psychosis.

Problems Of Addiction With The Mentally Ill

Addiction increases the risk of jail and homelessness while contributing to social stigmas regarding the mentally ill. Though individuals with psychiatric issues are generally non-violent, the few who are aggressive in nature are typically struggling with addiction while ignoring their medication.

Treatment For Dual Diagnosis

Diagnosis can prove difficult due to the time required to unravel the interactive effects of mental illness and addiction. This delay may also inhibit treatment. One may require mental illness treatment over substance abuse treatment, or vice versa. Ultimately, both issues must be addressed in order to achieve a state of optimum mental and physical health.

An integrated recovery approach must be sought when addiction and dual diagnosis is present. Treatment will include counseling, intensive case management, social support and motivational interventions. Recovery should be comprehensive, catering to each and every aspect of the patient’s life, including socialization, activities, housing and stress management.

The road to recovery is never an easy journey. If you or a loved one is struggling with dual diagnosis, Above it All Treatment Center is the place to turn. With a team of seasoned addiction, mental health and recovery specialists available to assess and address your individual needs and condition, you can count on Above it All to have you smiling and on the fast track to fabulous in no time. Call today!

Holistic Addiction Treatment

Drug addiction is a common issue that causes many people to seek treatment. An inpatient facility offers a number of options designed to get to the root of the addiction and help clients. A holistic drug treatment program includes elements that treat a client’s body, mind, and soul. All aspects have been affected by the addiction and need healing as part of the treatment process.

Holistically Treating Physical Needs

A client who arrives at a treatment program will be assessed to determine what his or her needs are before an individual treatment plan can be devised. If a person is still using drugs or alcohol, the first step may include going through holistic detox, or a similar program to free the body from the physical effects of drugs and/or alcohol.

Medically supervised detox is a safer way to deal with this part of the treatment. It involves slowly lowering the amount of drugs and alcohol in a client’s system until he or she is completely drug-free.

Nutrition And Exercise In Holistic Treatment

The other aspect of looking after a client during inpatient drug and alcohol treatment is recognizing that a person may not have been eating properly. The treatment program needs to include some instruction in healthy eating, as well as exercise classes and opportunities to spend time outside.  Because they’re so lost in the addiction, many addicts forget to provide very basic care for themselves.

Addressing Mental Health Needs In Holistic Treatment

Successful addiction treatment must include treating a client’s mental health needs. The initial screening should also include an evaluation for issues like depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. If holistic treatment for co-occurring disorder is required, expert treatment will be provided for the mental health concern as well as individual and group counseling for the addiction. Both issues are addressed concurrently to help clients in recovery.

Over time, clients can learn how to recognize the situations that may act as triggers for them to use drugs or alcohol. They can start to learn how to change thought processes to move away from negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones that can help to strengthen their commitment to sobriety.

Treating Spirit And Soul With Holistic Treatment

The third part of holistic drug and alcohol treatment programs involves focusing on the client’s soul. It’s just as important as taking good care of the body and teaching clients in treatment how to refocus their way of thinking in a more positive manner. A person’s relationship with his or herself is likely broken at this level from the addiction, and it can be repaired as part of the treatment process.

Meditation can help, even though many people may feel awkward about taking the time to be still and experience what they feel as they spend time in quiet contemplation. Over time, this strategy should help clients to develop a sense of peace and mindfulness that they can use to keep stress levels down.

Holistic drug rehabs use this three-pronged approach to help clients develop good strategies for their sobriety goals. The more tools they can add to their inventory, the more likely the client will be able to achieve long-term recovery.

Confronting Addiction In A Loved One

Most individuals who abuse drugs and alcohol do not believe or realize that a problem exists. Addiction has a way of changing people, and confronting an addict about their behavior can be difficult at best. Though approaching an addicted loved one may seem scary, an open mind, proper preparation, plan of action and willingness to discuss the issues at hand will work to ensure that the discussion goes smoothly.

Tips For Confronting And Dealing With An Addicted Loved One

1 – Before the discussion can begin, it is important to touch base with a substance abuse treatment program. You will be better prepared to move forward with the treatment process. The addict will be able to check in and get situated before they have the opportunity to change their mind.

2 – Do your research. Find information regarding why people use drugs, their effects on users, and the consequences associated with routine/long-term abuse. Educating yourself on the facts associated with addiction is crucial, ensuring that when the discussion or intervention takes place, that the focus is facts, rather than emotion.

3 – Engage your loved one with an open conversation by discussing the specific issues they have and which substances they are using. Make sure to listen to what they have to say, showing that you care in a calm, collected and non-judgmental manner.

4 – Offer up information regarding addiction to educate them as to the danger associated with their behaviors. Provide suggestions for rehabilitation and open up the conversation to include various treatment options.

5 – Discuss your concerns with other friends and family members of the addict. Tell them why you are concerned and what steps you are taking to combat the issue. Some people will ignore addiction until a point where the issue is properly illuminated. Opening up the discussion will promote support and communication amongst loved ones while working to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

6 – Consider an intervention. If an addict is hesitant to seek help on their own, an intervention may jump start the process. Interventions allow participants to communicate their feelings and concern to the addict in a direct, calculated and positive manner.

7 – Seek out professional help for the intervention. A trained interventionist will be able to provide an objective and accurate account of the addict’s behavior while serving as a mediator for friends and family members. Many interventionists will also help with the planning process to ensure a positive and productive experience for all involved.

Need Help Facing An Addict Or Addiction?

If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, Above It All Treatment Center is the place to call. Pick up the phone today and let our team of addiction specialists help you back on track towards the healthy, happy and fulfilling lifestyle you’ve been missing.

Learn How To Confront Teenage Drug Use

12 Step Addiction Treatment Programs – Top Questions Answered

Twelve step programs can be part of an inpatient or outpatient drug or alcohol addiction treatment program. Alcoholics Anonymous was the first program to use this approach, and other groups have adapted it to suit their needs. The first step on the road to recovery is to acknowledge that there is a problem. Here are some FAQs about the 12-step approach to treatment.

Why Is It Important For An Addict To Admit The Problem?

In Step 1, the addict admits that he or she is “powerless” over alcohol (or drugs) and that his or her life has become unmanageable. This is the start of the process where the person is starting to come out of denial and starts to focus less on the substance and more on their own contribution to the problem.

How Often Do I Need To Go To 12-Step Meetings?

In the early stages of recovery, a person may go to meetings on a daily basis. For clients who are being treated at 12 step recovery programs, attending meetings may be part of their individual treatment plan. The exact schedule will depend on their needs, and they will continue to attend meetings if they choose to stay at a sober living house after leaving the inpatient treatment program.

Do I Need To Be Religious To Follow A 12-Step Program?

Step 3 does talk about “turning our lives over to the care of God as we understood God,” but this program is non-denominational can be followed by people of any religious faith, as well as by those who consider themselves agnostics or atheists.

When Do I Have To Choose A Sponsor In A 12-Step Program?

You are not required to choose a sponsor in a 12-step program, although you are much more likely to stay sober if you do. If you decide to approach someone about being your sponsor, it should be someone that you have gotten to know from attending several meetings. Take your time and consider the matter carefully. This person should be someone who has been in recovery for a while who can provide guidance and support to you.

Will People Be Judging Me If I Talk At 12-Step Meetings?

Everyone who is going to a recovery meeting understands because they have also struggled with substance abuse issues. Everyone in the room will understand exactly where you are coming from. Nothing you can say will shock anyone there; some group members may have been through similar experiences when they were drinking or using drugs.

Will Anything I Say Be Discussed Outside Of The 12-Step Group?

No. Group members agree that anything discussed during a group meeting is confidential. Whether you are participating in the discussion as part of a 12 step long term rehab program or going to a meeting on your own, the word “anonymous” is in the name for a reason. You can share whatever is on your mind without having to worry about your thoughts or feelings being discussed elsewhere.

The Above It All drug and alcohol Treatment Center focuses on the 12-step approach to recovering from drug and alcohol addiction, as well as several other effective treatment options.

Naveen Andrews Talks About Sober Living, Role As Princess Diana’s Lost Love

Actor Naveen Andrews is familiar to fans of the television program, “Lost.” In his latest film, “Diana,” he takes on the role of Pakistani heart surgeon Dr. Hasnat Khan opposite Naomi Watts in the title role. The movie, which is based on Kate Snell’s book, “Diana: Her Last Love,” tells the story of the late Princess of Wales’ romantic relationship with the doctor.

In an interview to promote the film, Andrews was also candid about his alcoholism and history of heroin abuse. He is now living a sober life and says that he feels relieved that he “has found a way to function without those things.”

Sober Living Part Of Addiction Treatment Process

For addicts, there is no such thing as being “finished” or “cured.” When someone enters a treatment facility, it is the first step in the journey to deal with this complicated disease. A client may need to go through detox before starting an individualized course of treatment, which may include attending 12-step program meetings, participating in equine therapy sessions, or learning ways to cope with stress. Once this phase of treatment is completed, follow-up care at the Above It All sober living house can be arranged to provide support to clients.

Support Needed For Transition To Independent Living

Part of the addiction treatment process involves giving clients the tools they need to deal with triggers that will stimulate the urge to drink or use drugs. The Above It All Treatment Center sober living home gives clients a safe, supportive place to stay in the early days of recovery, when they are most vulnerable to these types of cravings.

Guests pay their rent every month, in advance. This amount also includes the services of a driver to take them to their 12-step meetings.

There is no time limit imposed on how long a guest can choose to stay at the sober living house. A typical stay is between two and three months, but a person may decide to stay for a shorter or longer time. As long as a guest follows the program rules, he or she is welcome to stay in the house.

Insurance Coverage for Stay In Sober Living House

Health insurance coverage may be available for addiction treatment, which includes the stay in a sober living house. Our services are covered by a number of major health insurance providers.

Making the transition to find a way to function without drugs and alcohol is not something that can be done overnight. It requires a series of steps, and constant vigilance to maintain lifelong sobriety. All the elements of the treatment plan, including the sober living house, have an important role to play to help clients achieve their goal of getting (and staying) clean and sober.

How To Confront Teenage Drug Use

How-To-Confront-Teenage-Drug-UseAdolescence can be a difficult period for many. In addition to studies and hormones, teens must combat peer pressure, social trends and an enhanced curiosity – a recipe for trouble. In order to thwart negative exterior influence, it is important for parents to educate teens as to the dangers and consequences of their actions. If you suspect drug or alcohol use in your teen, it is vital that action be taken to address the issue in an effective and loving manner. Here’s how:

 

Confronting Teen Drug Use

1 – Know your battle by researching statistics and information pertaining to teenage drug use. The more informed you are on the topic, the better able you will be to get your point across. You may even call your local police precinct for additional help, as many keep brochures handy. Scare tactics may work on a minimal level – Care tactics are preferred.

2 – Designate a time to sit down and communicate with your teen in a calm and sober setting. Suggest a walk, drive, or sit down meal where you can enjoy some one-on-one time.

3 – Be respectful! Nobody likes to be talked down to. A parent who allows their emotions to dictate the conversation will enjoy little, to no success. Take deep breaths, speak calmly, and be direct.

4 – Tell your teen about your suspicions. Explain the signs you have noticed and request an explanation. If your teen is unable to offer reasoning for their behaviors or comes up with wild excuses, you can likely affirm these suspicions.

5 – Provide statistics and evidence to stress your point – Drugs are dangerous and unhealthy. Offer insight into the long-term effects of drug and alcohol abuse, including addiction, financial struggle, health issues and memory loss. Placing the issue into a real-world context may provide them with enough reason to stop. Dive into your teen’s personal goals and show how they will be affected if the drug/alcohol use persists.

6 – Share your own experiences with drugs and alcohol. Whether it’s having watched a friend deteriorate or your own dealings, it’s important that your teen know that they are not alone. A personal story will work to illustrate your point while offering a unique perspective on the topic.

7 – Listen! Preaching will get you nowhere if you are unable to communicate on an equal level. Ask why they choose to dabble with drugs. Is it peer pressure? Relaxation? Escape? Create a dialogue that is both safe and open. If you want your teen to be honest with you, they must feel comfortable to do so!

8 – Explain that you cannot approve of your teen’s drug use and that it must stop immediately. Outline consequences if they choose to continue but definitely offer assistance to help them quit.

Looking for a drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility? Contact Above it All drug & alcohol addiction treatment center today!

Read More About Teenage Drug Abuse and the Risks