1. Talk to a Professional
If you think your child might have a drug or alcohol problem, speak with a mental health or medical professional. A person trained in substance use and adolescent issues can help you determine if your teen has a problem and what kind of treatment program or other support would be most appropriate for your specific situation.
2. Do Your Research
There are many different types of drug treatment available. Choose a program that allows for family involvement. Ask about other activities and services offered through a specific program. If your child loves drawing, finding a program that offers art classes or art therapy might be a priority. If your family is religious, a facility that incorporates your religious beliefs might be the best option. Are you OK sending your teen far from home or does the treatment center need to be within driving distance? What is the program's policy about relapse? What are the counselors like? Choosing a program is an important decision, and it is OK to explore different options and ask many questions.
3. Teenagers Have Different Needs Than Adults
Adolescent drug users are developmentally different than adult users, and their treatment should be approached in an age-appropriate way. For example, youth are more likely to be binge drinkers and usually haven't been using as long as older drug users. Entering a drug treatment program where your child struggles to relate to older clients could lead to frustration and a quick return to substance use. Teens must feel comfortable enough in their treatment program that they can open up to other clients about their experiences. Part of the treatment process for teens should include finding positive role models they can look up to and new friends to replace those who may still be using. Often this can happen through participation in a self-help group such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Alateen.
4. Treatment Should Involve the Whole Family
In addition to individual therapy, family therapy is an important component of treatment for teens. Family therapy can help improve relationships among family members and facilitate increased understanding about the roots of substance abuse and how drug or alcohol use relates to other family issues. Improved communication between relatives can lead to a smoother transition when a teen returns home after the treatment program ends.
5. Incorporate Ongoing Support and Services Into the Treatment Plan
It is important to create a plan for ongoing therapy and support before your child leaves treatment. This might involve outpatient treatment, individual therapy or continued participation in a support group. Sometimes a transitional or "half-way" house can provide structure and support before a person is ready to move back in with his family or move out on his own. It is important to identify triggers that could potentially lead to relapse and coping mechanisms a teen can use instead of returning to drugs or alcohol. The ongoing support may also include continued family therapy to help everyone in the family adjust to support a sober lifestyle.
