No family is immune from the opioid epidemic, and sadly, teens are one of the fastest growing segments of opioid abusers. This series will help you understand the problem and prevent your family from becoming a statistic.
One of the most heartbreaking things a family can experience is drug abuse and addiction. Watching a child struggle with a drug problem is miserable; watching a child die from drugs is shattering. One particular class of drugs has enslaved young people in recent years—opioids. No family is immune, and sadly, teens are one of the fastest growing segments of opioid abusers.
If you have suspicion, you probably have a pretty good reason, even if you can’t put your finger on any one thing that worries you. Be on the lookout for the following red flags.
Personal Changes
Have you noticed anything different or “off” with your teen lately? Any sudden or dramatic changes in his spiritual walk? Has he stopped going to church?
What about psychological health? Have there been any sudden changes in mood or behavior? Differences in family relationships? With peers? Are good friendships deteriorating? Are there new friendships with shady characters?
Are interests changing? For example, is she normally concerned about school and grades but suddenly doesn’t care? Is her usual interest in sports suddenly waning? All of these could signal a problem.
Do you see a change in his finances or financial habits? Are his savings dwindling without explanation? Is his money going out to some unknown destination as fast as it comes in?
Note that there are many reasons for changes in youth, so don’t immediately assume the worst. Talk with him about what you’ve noticed, and watch his reaction. Red flags include an unwillingness to discuss, secrecy about the changes, or explanations that don’t add up.
Evidence of Drugs
These may include:
Missing pill bottles from your medicine cabinet (or reports of missing medicine from relative’s medicine cabinets) are another problematic sign.
Symptoms of Opioid Use and Withdrawal
Be on the lookout for:
Summer is Prime Season
Summertime often brings disposable income and unstructured time with peers. During summer breaks parents often relax on parental supervision and curfews. Extra time often results in boredom and risky behavior becomes more attractive.
First of all don’t panic!
Your initial reaction may be heated—a natural response when your child is doing something dangerous. But you need to manage your “emotional volume” to think clearly. In this state, you can easily say or do things you might later regret.
Also, don’t start the blame game—with yourself or others. The goal right now is to help find solutions. Looking to lay blame will only make that more difficult.
Relationship is #1
Remind yourself that relationship with your child is top priority, despite his behavior. Words or actions that sever the relationship make it more difficult to constructively deal with the problem. Hard as it is, leave communication channels open so your child can ask questions and trust you are his advocate.
Really, no parent knows how to deal with drug abuse. Even though you may feel embarrassed, ashamed, angry, and desperate don’t isolate yourself or sweep the problem under the rug. Your emotional pain is important, but your top priority at the moment is to get help for your son or daughter.
Don’t Go it Alone—Seek help
Your pastor or a school counselor can point you to resources relevant to drug abuse. You can also call Focus on the Family (1-800-A-FAMILY) for expert consultation and referrals for resources and further help in your area.
Karl Benzio, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist and is a member of the Senior Leadership Team at Liberty University’s Global Center for Mental Health, Addiction and Recovery. He’s a consultant/advisor to the Mental Health Initiative and co-founder and medical director of Honey Lake Clinic in Greenville, Florida. He also serves as the Medical Director of the American Association of Christian Counselors. Dr. Benzio is a member of the Physicians Resource Council of Focus on the Family.
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