Seeking help for teen drug abuse

If you suspect or know that your teen is experimenting with or misusing drugs:

• Talk to him or her. You can never intervene too early. Casual drug use can turn into excessive use or addiction and cause accidents, legal trouble and health problems.
• Encourage honesty. Speak calmly and express that you are coming from a place of concern. Share specific details to back up your suspicion. Verify any claims he or she makes.
• Focus on the behavior, not the person. Emphasize that drug use is dangerous but that doesn't mean your teen is a bad person.
• Check in regularly. Spend more time with your teen, know your teen's whereabouts, and ask questions after he or she returns home.
• Get professional help. If you think your teen is involved in significant drug use, contact a doctor, counselor or other health care provider for help.

It's never too soon to start talking to your teen about drug abuse. The conversations you have today can help your teen make healthy choices in the future.