Identifying An Addiction Problem In A Youngster

More youngsters are today dealing with problems related to addiction to alcohol or drugs among many other things. In most cases, youngsters do not use these substances when they are home; rather, they do so at other locations. However, these problems have a nasty habit of leaving telltale signs on the user. As such if parents learn these signs, they will be able to identify an addiction problem in a youngster.

Typically, parents have the habit of trying to deny that the youngster could be dealing with an addiction, hoping that the problem will go away by itself. Unfortunately, things do not work that way, and in most cases, the youngster develops a full-fledged addiction.

[su_quote class=”cust-pagination”]“An intelligent person can rationalize anything, a wise person doesn’t try.” — Jen Knox [/su_quote]

Identify An Addiction Problem In A Youngster

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If you find hidden drugs or alcohol or suspect that your child is abusing any substances, you should understand how to identify the issue and have a discussion with the kid. Make a note of any changes you notice in the child’s academic performance, changes in behavior and appearance, and other personal issues.

Make an attempt to have a conversation with the child when he or she is sober. You should bear in mind that talking to the youngster when they are intoxicated will not be helpful.

The child should be approached with genuine concern. Try to put the child at ease first. It is common for parents to be confused or have feelings of anger, but displaying such behavior will only make the child defensive. It could even encourage them to either lie or go over the discussion altogether.

Be specific about your concerns without making accusations or trying to provoke the child. It would be better if you just describe the changes you noticed and express your concerns.

Having a calm and a friendly discussion with the child will bring out more information about the addiction and give you as a parent an opportunity to take proper actions.

What Do I Do When I Identify The Problem? 

You should not panic. Consider the options available to you and take appropriate actions.

If the child has admitted to using the substances, encourage them to explain the reasons why they are doing so and their achievements from this behavior. The information can be used for processing with a professional at a later date.

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Be prepared to give the child a reality check by discussing the dangers of drug use and the complications and the consequences that the youngster is exposing himself or herself to.

You should also consider the family history and bring out any information about addiction problems.  Addiction also has a genetic vulnerability, and such matters should be explained clearly to the child.

As mentioned earlier, note that the problem will not go away by itself. After discussing with the child, get professional help because it is the best way for all people to move ahead.

[su_quote class=”cust-pagination”]“If you are an approval addict, your behavior is as easy to control as that of any other junkie. All a manipulator need do is a simple two-step process: Give you what you crave, and then threaten to take it away. Every drug dealer in the world plays this game.” ― Harriet B. Braiker [/su_quote]

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Getting Professional Help 

There are many centers throughout the country where you can seek help. The government is also spending large sums of money to deal with this problem. You can easily contact the centers within their locality and enquire if they can handle an addiction problem in a youngster—which, in most cases, will not be a different matter. You may have to get involved with the treatment personally because youngsters can be difficult to manage in alien conditions. However, that is the best option and opportunity for the child to overcome the problem they have developed.