WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY CHILD IS USING ALCOHOL OR DRUGS? DO NOT get hysterical threaten them physically or emotionally promise them rewards if they stop using drugs manipulate them play an emotional verbal game ex: "How could you do this to us?" believe promises that it won't happen again tell the whole world blame yourself or other people DO Try to remain calm - talk with them when they are sober or straight and you're calm Facilitate and communicate support Seek professional help from a doctor, a counsellor, a spiritual leader, rehabilitation centers, help lines. Join a support group for parents in the same situation Talk to someone about how you are feeling (a counsellor/your doctor) Enforce whatever discipline your family has agreed upon for violating house rules Stress LOVE and CONCERN for your child Even in the face of mounting evidence, parents often have a hard time acknowledging that their child has an alcohol, tobacco, or drug problem. Anger, resentment, guilt, and a sense of failure are all common reactions. It is important to avoid self blame. Drug abuse occurs in families of all economic and social backgrounds and in happy and unhappy homes alike. The success of any approach to the situation depends on a variety of factors such as the child's temperament and willingness to change and the extent and frequency of use. Parents should not be afraid to seek assistance from sources outside the family. If you believe your teen is abusing drugs or your efforts to enforce the rules have failed repeatedly, seek help from a counselor or health care professional. Return to our Parents Place Return to our Parents Place ADDITIONAL HELPFUL LINKS Take Action advice at Parents: The Anti-Drug What Can Parents Do? from Teens With Problems website Articles on the the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission (Canada) website    How Bad is my Teen's Drinking or Drug Use?    How to get through to your Teen    When Your Teen is using Drugs or Alcohol Al-Anon Support for family & friends of alcoholics Nar-Anon Support for family & friends of drug addicts Families Anonymous for family & friends of those who have alcohol, drug or behavioral problems Tough Love self-help organization for parents - Local and Online Addiction Information Center Alcohol/Drug Abuse and Treatment Information About Rehab and Treatment for young adults TREATMENT FACILITY & SERVICES LOCATOR (by the US Department of Health and Human Services - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) Information contained on these pages and external links is intended for informational purposes only. Linking to other websites does not constitute endorsement by Scmidt & Associates, Inc. of information, products, services, or other content which may be contained on those sites.
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