When to Seek Help if Your Child is Using

The earlier one seeks help for their teen's behavioral or drug problems, the better. How is a parent to know if their teen is experimenting with or moving more deeply into the drug culture? Above all, a parent must be a good and careful observer, particularly of the little details that make up a teen's life. Overall signs of dramatic change in appearance, friends, or physical health may be signs of trouble. If a parent believes his or her child may be drinking or using drugs, here are some things to watch for:

•Physical evidence of drugs and drug paraphernalia
•Behavior problems and poor grades in school
•Emotional distancing, isolation, depression, or fatigue
•Change in friendships or extreme influence by peers
•Hostility, irritability, or change in level of cooperation around the house
•Lying or increased evasiveness about after school or weekend whereabouts
•Decrease in interest in personal appearance
•Physical changes such as bloodshot eyes, runny nose, frequent sore throats, rapid weight loss
•Changes in mood, eating, or sleeping patterns
•Dizziness and memory problems

Cleabrook Treatment Centers can help you determine if your child is in need of recovery. Because of the high-risk of adolescents using drugs, Cleabrook Treatment Centers have established the Clearbrook Lodge, designed to specifically deal with the issue of teen drug abuse. Established specifically for adolescents, this 46-bed inpatient rehabilitation center is the beginning of what must be a continued effort to maintain a lifestyle and lifetime of sobriety. The 12 steps of Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous are an integral part of the patient community’s daily activities and efforts.