There may be no greater pain in this world than losing a child. Losing a child to addiction can be especially heartbreaking.
Parents who have children struggling with addiction are often perplexed as to what to do. They feel helpless and in the dark, and all they really want to do is save their children from this seemingly hopeless disease.
Being a teenager or young adult is extremely challenging. Young people feel a powerful need to fit in, and their changing hormones and fluctuating emotions can make everything seem worse than it is. If a mental health disorder like depression or anxiety are involved, the pressure can feel insurmountable. Many children turn to drugs as a way to escape this pressure or to feel like they belong to a group.
So what can parents do?
Some alcohol and drug addiction treatment centers cater specifically to teens and emerging adults. With compassion and specialized training, the addiction professionals at these facilities can assess young clients and address both the addiction and any co-occurring mental health disorders that may be present. Young people will meet others like them and develop friendships that can support and encourage their recovery after treatment ends.
If you’re not sure how to help your child, contact a treatment facility and speak with an admissions counselor.
The counselor can help you determine the best plan of action to connect with your child and to get them the help they need. Don’t worry about school or any of your child’s other commitments. Focus your energy on wellness: your own and your child’s. Most treatment centers offer family programming; engage in this programming. It will help your family understand what addiction is and how to support each other through the recovery process. It may also uncover family dynamics that may be contributing to the problem and teach communication skills for healthier connections.
Don’t give up. Contact us today and let our team of professionals at our many treatment centers help you or your loved one find freedom from substance abuse.
