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You'll find the latest mental health news, learn about some of the most common (and not-so-common) diagnoses and get the opportunity to share your own experiences and feelings.
So, please, stop by anytime--and tell your friends and colleagues!
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COULD YOUR TEEN BE USING?
Most parents are concerned about how their children will deal with pressures to use alcohol or other drugs. Some parents believe that it is less dangerous for their children to drink. In fact, alcohol is a drug too, and is still the drug of choice for most teens. By educating yourself about teenage drinking and drug use, you can help your teenager cope wisely when the inevitable opportunity arises.
WHY TEENS USE DRUGS
Teenagers use drugs for many reasons. But their first notions about it may come from the behavior of their own family. To help prevent them from abusing drugs, parents need to provide teens with plenty of love, good communication and calm and consistent standards about drug and alcohol use. Even if you do all that though, teens will still feel a need to fit in with their peers. They may be influenced by ads and news stories which imply that everyone drinks or does drugs.
Face it, adolescence is a confusing time, at best. Some teens use drugs in order to escape from unpleasant emotions or feel more confident-particularly if they often feel shy or insecure about how they look and act.
TELLTALE SIGNS?
Here are some symptoms to watch for if you believe your teenager may be using drugs:
Discipline problems, constant arguing, lying and irresponsibility.
Isolation, secrecy and less involvement in family activities.
New interests or friends-especially older friends.
Bad grades or poor school attendance.
Hyperactivity, drowsiness or forgetfulness.
Depression or mood swings.
Change in speaking patterns.
Weight gain or loss, junk food cravings.
Bloodshot eyes, use of eyedrops or incense, runny nose or coughing.
Odd small containers in pockets or purse.
Money problems.
Alcohol, drugs or possessions disappearing from the house.
Drug paraphernalia, such as pipes, papers and razor blades.
Needle marks.
Tremors.
Hallucinations or delusions.
WHAT CAN I DO?
Here are some steps you can take if you believe your teen has a drinking or drug problem:
Learn about alcohol, drugs and dependency. There are plenty of resources available via the Internet, or by visiting your local public library.
Talk calmly and honestly-when you know your child is sober-about the changes you see, and the harmful consequences of drug abuse. Do not shield your teen from the effects of drug abuse.
Discuss seeking treatment together with your teen.
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When your teenager abuses drugs or alcohol, you should seek out a therapist who specializes in working with adolescents and/or substance abuse. Effective treatment usually involves other family members, in addition to the teen with the issue.
Counseling Associates features several therapists who are well-versed in working with adolescents, substance abuse issues and more.
If you or someone you know would like to speak to a counselor in confidence, please call us at (248) 626-1500 or visit our Web site by clicking here. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Sincerely, |
Dr. Sidney H. Grossberg, Ph.D., Executive Director
Counseling Associates
6960 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 100
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
(248) 626-1500
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COUNSELING ASSOCIATES
