As teenagers grow to be more independent, they have to make more decisions on their own. Sometimes, they make better choices than others. Prescription drug abuse in teens is a serious problem that can have lasting effects on your child and your family. Learn how to recognise substance abuse and how to help your teenager overcome it by calling Venture Academy at 866.762.2211 today. If you’ve been researching “residential treatment near me,” we can help.
Why Teens Are Vulnerable to Prescription Drug Abuse
As a concerned parent, you might be very surprised to know that you probably have some drugs sitting in your home right now. Maybe you don’t think of them as drugs because your doctor prescribed them. But medications, including prescriptions, are drugs. And some of them have the potential for abuse.
Kids often experiment, whether it’s from peer pressure, curiosity, or looking for ways to cope with negative emotions. They may not have the resources to buy illicit substances, so they look for things around the home.
Painkillers and cough syrup are among two of the most abused substances. While teens are too young to buy their own drinks, they may sneak some of Mom and Dad’s. Likewise, they may look in the bathroom medicine cabinet for pills that provide mild to moderate highs.
Prescription drugs aren’t completely safe just because doctors prescribe them. Abusing opioids and other narcotics can lead to dependency, which will impact the entire family unit.
Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse in Teens
With so much going on with your adolescent son or daughter, how do you recognise typical teen behaviour vs. a real problem? After all, many teenagers can be moody and withdrawn, and this doesn’t always mean something is wrong.
Signs indicating drug abuse include:
- Missing medications, including cough syrup
- Theft and constantly asking for cash
- Change in sleeping habits
- Falling grades
- Aggressive behaviour
Teenagers who don’t find drugs and alcohol at home may rely on friends. They may also buy pills on the street, leading to unexplained requests for cash. Help is available if you suspect your teen is struggling with prescription drug abuse. Getting your child into a prescription drug addiction treatment program is the best way to stop this problem before it grows any bigger.
Getting Professional Help for Teen Prescription Drug Abuse in Canada
It can be difficult to decide when it’s time to seek professional help for your teen’s drug abuse. If you notice any of the signs of prescription drug abuse, it’s vital to seek professional help. A trained counsellor can assess the situation and provide the appropriate guidance and support for your teen. They can also help you evaluate the best course of action, whether it be therapy, a rehab program, or simply more parenting guidance. Whatever the situation, professional intervention is essential in helping teens overcome drug abuse.
It’s important to remember that seeking professional help isn’t a sign of failure but rather an effort to provide the best care and support for your teen. With patience and understanding, you can help them get back on track and take control of their lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with adolescent drug abuse, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. It could be the difference between life and death. Professional care can provide support and guidance to help teens get back on the right path and avoid the dangers of drug abuse.
By taking action now, you can give your teen the opportunity to have a better future. This is one of the most important investments you can make in your child’s life. With three locations in Canada, Venture Academy can help.
Family Support for You and Your Teen at Venture Academy
Maybe your son is having problems at school, or your daughter’s behaviour has steadily worsened in recent months. Venture Academy can help. We’re a residential behaviour treatment centre with three locations throughout Canada. By combining education and individualized therapy in small group settings, we aim to help teenagers and their families heal and recover.
Our services include:
- Mental health treatment
- Youth detox program
- Drug and alcohol treatment
- School programs and education
- Help for electronic addiction
If prescription drug abuse in teens has impacted your family, it’s time to get help. Call us at 866.762.2211 or fill out our online contact form today, and we’ll use our solution-oriented approach to treat your troubled teenager and give all of you the fresh start you deserve.
