Substance abuse disorder can affect anyone no matter their age, economic status, or family history. It’s common for people to begin experimenting with drugs during their adolescent years, especially if their friends are doing it, too. Teens may also be influenced by mass media or may want to feel like they fit in with their peers. They may also be suffering from depression or boredom and use drugs as a way to escape their reality. However, even if teens begin by occasionally experimenting with drugs, they are not exempt from becoming addicted. It can be difficult for parents to address their child’s potential substance abuse disorder. Understanding different methods of communication will help parents appropriately address their children so they can receive the best help possible.

Having an Intervention With Your Child

An effective way for parents to address their child’s potential drug abuse problem is to have an intervention. There are two types of interventions that parents can try — formal and informal.

A formal intervention is a structured way to approach a child and usually involves other family members that have been affected by the child’s negative actions. During this process, everyone sits the child down and explains to them how their actions have impacted them and how they believe they may be suffering from a serious problem. Sometimes it’s beneficial to hire a trained professional to mediate the conversation so that all parties are able to effectively and appropriately express themselves. This option is also the best choice if the child has refused help or treatment in the past.

An informal intervention is a more personal conversation that parents have with their children. Parents may choose this option if it’s the first time they are addressing this issue with their child. During this process, parents may discuss their observations, ask their child some questions, and listen to their child’s answers. Hopefully, this process allows the parent and child to agree upon a solution that will help the child live a healthier lifestyle.

When Should I Have an Intervention With My Child?

There is definitely a time and a place for parents to address their children if they believe they may be suffering from a substance abuse disorder. For example, parents should not address their children if they are drunk or high. It’s best if the child is sober and present so that the conversation is impactful and memorable. It’s best for parents to also avoid the conversation if they are angry because children tend to get more defensive, rebellious, and unresponsive under those circumstances. Lastly, parents should avoid the conversation if they are not prepared. It’s important for parents to make sure they have gathered enough observations and evidence before addressing their child’s behavior.

If a child admits to suffering from addiction, the next best step is for parents to enroll them in a rehabilitation center or an alternative treatment center.

Alternative Treatment Centers in Tennessee

How Parents Should Address their Child's AddictionAt Discovery Place, we have spent years assisting individuals with their substance abuse disorders. Because we are a nontraditional alternative treatment center located in Burns, Tennessee, we help our patients retain long-lasting results. Some of our programs include a 30-Day Alternative Residential Addiction Recovery Program and a Long-Term Alternative Addiction Recovery Program. If you would like more information about our programs, call us today to schedule a free consultation at (800) 725-0922.

Testimonials

  • Discovery Place was the answer for my son. He did the 90 day and then the step down program and sober living. We give this organization 10 stars. They met my son where he was …emotionally, mentally, physically. They helped him put his life back on track. Discovery Place employees care about their guests. If your son, brother, nephew, grandson or husband needs excellent supportive care THIS is indeed the facility.

    Kim Morton
    Alumni Parent
  • I have remained sober and it is because of DP. DP is the best place there is, hands down. I keep everyone there in my prayers, and I encourage everyone there to take what they are practicing and do it in their lives, after.

    Roy Mantelli
    Alumni
  • Over the past year, I’ve been putting into actin what Discovery Place taught me, and I have experienced a complete perspective change of the world, and the people in it. I get to be a man of service and love today, and for that I am grateful to Discovery Place.

    Matt Kassay
    Alumni
  • Discovery Place means the world to me. They showed me the tools that I’ve tried to use everyday in my life to think less often of myself, and more frequently of others. I am learning to lend a hand when I am able and to have a honest and humble relationship with God and the people around me. Not only am I clean and sober, but also I am happy and fulfilled.

    Tommy Parker
    Alumni
  • Discovery Place and the men who work there made recovery attractive, and more importantly, fun. There is strength in the struggle. I am forever grateful for my time at Discovery Place.

    Creed McClellan
    Alumni
  • When I got to Discovery Place my whole life was in shambles, but I didn’t know it. I spent 6 months in their programs, participating in all three phases, and was met with kindness and love all along the way. It is unbelievable to me, where I am now relative to where I was when I arrived at DP.

    Lance Duke
    Alumni
  • I can never say enough good things about Discovery Place and the people who work there. Before checking in to DP, I was out of options and out of answers. Fortunately, Discovery Place has a solution. Taking suggestions from the staff at DP saved my life, and as a result, I’m now more content and hopeful about life. I’m grateful for Discovery Place showing me how to live a healthy life so that I can become a better man and help the next guy.”

    Tyler Buckingham
    Alumni

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