Parents of teens who have a substance use or mental health disorder face unique challenges. Rosecrance wants to equip parents to speak with their teen about addiction and mental health, and encourage them to receive treatment if needed. Here are some resources to help parents of teens in those discussions.
Been There: Teens in Recovery Tell It Like It Is
“Been There” was compiled from interviews with teens living at Rosecrance’s Rockford recovery homes – Marlowe House and Hillman House. The teens discussed common statements they made while they were using – such as “Weed isn’t even addictive” and “I only drink or use on the weekends” – and offered answers that they hope with resonate with teens today and prevent them from ever knowing the pain of addiction.
When the conversation about getting help has resulted in refusal, denial, or defiance, what’s next? Here are some common reasons for resistance and how you can prepare your child for the next step.
Teens & Weed: Still a Big Deal
Parents, don’t be stumped for answers to the inevitable questions about marijuana, especially now, when numerous states have legalized its recreational or medicinal use. Legal doesn’t mean harmless. There is no safe level of substance use for teenagers, and that includes pot. As a parent, you’re the most powerful influence in your teenager’s life. You need the facts to keep your teen on a healthy path.
This booklet contains everything a parent needs to know about cough and cold medicine, also known as “DXM.” Read about real experiences of teenagers in treatment at Rosecrance, and tangible examples from substance abuse professionals of how to prevent the abuse of DXM in your own home.
Other Resources:
Prevention and Early Intervention Program (PEI) – Now Offered Virtually
The Rosecrance PEI Program is an evidence-based alcohol and drug education program designed to provide education, support, and direction to teens and their families who may be at risk of more serious involvement with alcohol and other drugs.
35 Signs & Symptoms of Adolescent Substance Abuse
If you are concerned about a change in a young person close to you, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of adolescent substance abuse to determine if they need treatment. The best way for a parent or loved one to be an ally for the adolescent is to stay informed.
Rosecrance Teen Substance Abuse Services
Addressing a teen’s struggle with substance abuse means understanding the emotional, developmental, physical, psychological, familial, social and cultural factors involved in their addiction. At Rosecrance, we have developed an evidence-based, 12 Step-based program that incorporates clinical, medical, educational and experiential therapies into a comprehensive individualized treatment plan. Click here to learn more.
At the request of our community, a confidential, free support group has been organized by Rosecrance and is open to all parents and/or guardians. This support group will be held virtually and requires participants to register in advance. An addictions counselor will be available online and will facilitate the group.
“Is my child using drugs? What can I do?”
At this point, you are not sure. You may think he/she is going through a phase or just experimenting. Making it more difficult, your child is telling you he/she doesn’t
have a problem at all.
Talking to your teen about drugs, alcohol and heroin
For many parents, talking with children about drugs and alcohol can be difficult … yet it is essential. Research shows that the more parents talk to their children about drugs and alcohol, the less likely the children will become users.
Whether you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol or drug abuse and addiction, it’s important to be informed about specific drug facts, signs and symptoms of abuse, and your treatment options. We’ve put together a collection of resources to help you learn about these drugs.
Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Addiction (PDF)
This publication was prepared for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) by the Knowledge Application Program (KAP), a Joint Venture of The CDM Group, Inc., and JBS International, Inc.
Drug Fact Sheets