No parent wants to believe their child would use drugs or abuse alcohol, but at times this can be a struggle for your child. In 2020, 40.3 million people aged 12 or older in the United States had a substance use disorder including 28.3 million with alcohol use disorder, 18.4 million with an illicit drug use disorder, and 6.5 million with both alcohol use disorder and illicit drug use disorder8.
Changes in behavior are among the top warning signs of drug abuse, and ignoring the warning signs is one of the biggest mistakes parents of addicted loved ones can make. Finding help and support for your addicted child can help them find recovery. The way you speak to your child can influence how receptive they are to accepting treatment.
Methamphetamine, also known as meth, is a highly addictive and dangerous stimulant drug. It is closely related to amphetamine and is typically available in the form of a white, odorless, and bitter-tasting powder that can be easily dissolved in water or alcohol. Meth can also be found in pill form or as a crystal-like substance that is smoked.The drug is often referred to as “crystal meth,” “ice,” or “glass” when it is in the crystal form. It is highly addictive and can be consumed in a number of ways, including snorting, injecting, or smoking.
Methamphetamine is a powerful central nervous system stimulant that increases the levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, in the brain. This can produce a strong sense of euphoria, increased alertness and energy, and decreased appetite in users.Meth can also be called by other street names such as:
Methamphetamine is becoming a more common drug to the youth. There are multiple physical side effects and risks that affect teens when they are abusing meth which include the following:
Meth doesn’t just have physical effects, it also causes mental side effects that include:
Using meth on a regular basis can affect close relationships with family, friends, co-workers, and school members. While using methamphetamine it can change your energy levels, so while one day you may be ready for the day and do very well, the next day you could be lazy and not do anything. This affects work and school life for teens.
Also abusing meth can lead to an increase in sexual activities. This can be inappropriate behavior for teens. This puts a strain on relationships if the teen using meth is trying to be sexually active with multiple partners.
It can be difficult to know how to approach the subject of drug use with your teenager. You may be feeling scared, angry, or helpless. It’s important to try to have an open and honest conversation with your teenager about their drug use. Avoid judging or lecturing them, and try to listen to their perspective.
You might want to ask them why they started using drugs, what their experience has been like, and if they’re thinking about quitting. It’s also important to let them know that you’re there for them and that you want to help them get through this tough time. If you’re concerned that your teenager is using meth, there are a few things you can do.
First, try to talk to them about it. If they’re unwilling to talk or if you’re not getting anywhere, you might want to consider getting professional help. There are many resources available to families dealing with a teen who is using meth.
There are a number of signs that your teen is using meth. Here are some signs that your teen is abusing methamphetamine:
Here at Solace Treatment Center we are here to help you, help your teen. We have substance abuse programs such as Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs). IOPs are important because we understand that your teen still has obligations outside of treatment to fulfill. They can still come home while receiving the help they need. We also offer Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP). This is important because teens can get group and individual therapy.
We have many therapy and medical options for your teen. Contact us today so we can help you determine what is the best option for you and your child. We are here to help your child get on the road to recovery. There is a life for your teen without methamphetamine addiction.
Solace Treatment is licensed and/or certified by the State Department of Health Care Services.
License #: 191240AP
Expiration: 09/30/2025
