I Think My Child is Addicted

Parents often have a tough time noticing or accepting the fact that their child is potentially addicted to drugs, alcohol, gambling, or any other unhealthy activity. Whether it’s denial, thinking that there is no way that “my kid” does drugs, or it’s fear of confronting your child because you don’t want to believe it’s true, the fact remains that addiction needs to be treated immediately or it only gets worse. Kids experiment with drugs and alcohol for many different reasons. Many first try them out of curiosity, to have a good time, because friends are doing it, or in an effort to improve athletic performance or ease another problem, such as stress, anxiety, or depression. Use doesn’t automatically lead to abuse, and there is no specific level at which drug use moves from casual to problematic. It varies by individual.

Physical signs of potential addiction include bloodshot eyes, pupils larger or smaller than usual, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, sudden weight loss or weight gain, and deterioration of physical appearance and personal grooming habits. Behavioral signs of drug abuse include a drop in attendance and performance at work or school, unexplained need for money or financial problems, and sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies. Psychological warning signs of drug abuse include unexplained change in personality or attitude, sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts, and lack of motivation.

Adolescent addiction is something that should be taken very seriously. Parents should definitely monitor their kid’s activity even if it might seem like invasion of privacy because in the long run the treatment of addiction is much more important than giving your kids privacy. Treatment options in today’s society can be overwhelming, but the best option becomes clear after understanding what Seabrook offers. At Seabrook, we are committed to providing quality addiction treatment for the physical, emotional and spiritual illness of chemical dependency. Our structured and nurturing programs combine to foster the kind of change necessary for a clean and sober life. Our wide range of addiction treatment services include intensive detoxification, individual and group therapy, and education in the biological, social and spiritual aspects of addiction in residential treatment. Seabrook is an internationally recognized private and exclusive inpatient drug rehab and alcoholism detoxification treatment center located in Bridgeton, New Jersey (NJ) that focuses on the individual patient in order to achieve the most successful recovery. Parents who fear that their child has an addiction should contact Seabrook today!