Do’s and Dont’s for Getting Your Child Into Drug Rehab

Navigate the do's and don'ts for getting your child into drug rehab, with comprehensive support resources.

Published On

June 13, 2024

Dove Recovery's Team

Do’s and Dont’s for Getting Your Child Into Drug Rehab

Understanding Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is a pervasive issue with far-reaching consequences, particularly for families. Within the family unit, children and teenagers can be profoundly impacted by the substance abuse habits of their parents. Genetic factors also play a significant role in the risk of developing addictive behaviors.

Impact of Parental Substance Abuse on Teens

Parental substance abuse can create a tumultuous environment for children and teenagers, leading to a host of negative outcomes. According to Teensavers, teenagers who live with a substance-abusing parent are at least twice as likely to abuse drugs or alcohol themselves. This statistic underscores the influence of parental behaviors on a child's propensity towards substance misuse.

Beyond the risk of substance abuse, children living in these environments also face emotional and mental stress. The Partnership for Drug-Free Kids reports that the responsibility of caring for themselves and their intoxicated parents can harm a child's brain development. This additional stress can lead to a higher risk of injury, exposure to crime, malnutrition, and isolation from their peers.

Further compounding these challenges, the National Council of State Legislatures (NCSL) lists parental substance abuse as a common reason for children to run away from home or become homeless. The NCSL also reports that children in these situations are often victims of physical and emotional abuse, which are common in households where an adult abuses alcohol or drugs.

Genetic Influence on Addiction Risk

While the environment plays a substantial role, genetics also factor into the risk of developing an addiction. According to Teensavers, genetics account for approximately 60% of a person's risk for addiction. These genetic predispositions can make some individuals more susceptible to substance abuse, underscoring the importance of early intervention and prevention efforts, especially for children with a family history of substance abuse.

Understanding the impact of parental substance abuse on children and the influence of genetics on addiction risk can inform the necessary steps in seeking help. It's vital to remember that treatment is possible and many resources are available to assist families on this journey.

Risks and Consequences of Teen Substance Abuse

Substance abuse among teenagers is a matter of grave concern. Understanding the risks and consequences associated with this behavior is paramount for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals. This section will discuss the misuse of prescription medications, the mental health impact of substance abuse, and the connection between substance abuse and runaway rates.

Prescription Medications Abuse

Contrary to popular belief, academic intelligence doesn't necessarily equate to maturity. The area of the brain responsible for good judgment doesn't fully mature until the mid-20s, leading even "smart" kids to make poor decisions, including those related to substance abuse. One such poor choice involves the misuse of prescription medications. According to Teensavers, prescription medications rank third in the list of substances most frequently abused by American teens, following alcohol and marijuana. It's crucial for parents to secure medications and regularly audit their inventory to prevent potential misuse.

Mental Health Impact of Substance Abuse

The mental health impact of substance abuse is profound and far-reaching. The Partnership for Drug-Free Kids states that the emotional and mental stress of having to care for themselves and intoxicated parents could harm a child's brain development. These children often find themselves in a position where they must provide for their own needs due to their parents' physical or mental absence. This predicament places them at a higher risk of injury, crime exposure, malnutrition, and social isolation from their peers.

Runaway Rates and Abuse

Substance abuse within a home significantly contributes to the rates of runaway children. According to the National Council of State Legislatures (NCSL), parental substance abuse is one of the most common reasons children run away from home or become homeless. Furthermore, the NCSL reveals that 46 percent of underage runaways have experienced physical abuse, and 38 percent have endured emotional abuse—both forms of mistreatment are common in homes where an adult abuses alcohol or drugs.

Substance abuse among teens is a multifaceted issue with severe consequences. Recognizing the risks, understanding the impact, and acknowledging the correlation with other forms of abuse can guide parents and professionals in their efforts to prevent and address this destructive behavior.

Seeking Help and Support

Finding the right help and support is a crucial part of the recovery journey for children and teens struggling with substance abuse. This includes helpline services, recovery programs specifically designed for children of addicted parents, and various treatment options for substance use disorders.

SAMHSA National Helpline Services

SAMHSA's National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) is a confidential, free, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders [3]. This helpline provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.

It's important to note that the helpline does not provide counseling but connects callers with state services, intake centers, and local assistance and support [3]. For those who have no insurance or are underinsured, they will be referred to state offices responsible for state-funded treatment programs. Moreover, the service can also refer individuals to facilities that charge on a sliding fee scale or accept Medicare or Medicaid [3].

Recovery Programs for Children of Addicted Parents

For children of addicted parents, recovery often begins with regaining self-confidence and learning how to build trusting relationships with family and peers. Therefore, finding a suitable rehab program that caters to these needs can be the first step in a lifelong journey of recovery [1].

Various programs focus on providing an environment where children can express their feelings, learn about addiction, and gain coping strategies. These programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of these children, equipping them with the necessary tools to break the cycle of addiction in their families.

Treatment Options for Substance Use Disorders

When it comes to treating substance use disorders in children and teens, there are several options available. These include outpatient treatments, inpatient residential treatments, and recovery schools. The best treatment option depends on the severity of the substance use disorder, the substance being used, and the individual's overall health and well-being.

Outpatient treatments allow the individual to live at home while receiving therapy and counseling during the day. Inpatient residential treatments offer an immersive therapy experience with round-the-clock care. Recovery schools provide an educational environment that supports recovery and academic success.

Choosing the right treatment option is a crucial step in the recovery process, and professional guidance should be sought to ensure the best choice is made. Remember, successful recovery is a journey that involves more than just stopping substance use; it involves learning new coping mechanisms, rebuilding relationships, and creating a healthier lifestyle.

Choosing the Right Rehab Center

Finding the right rehab center is a pivotal step in the journey towards recovery. There are three key areas to consider when evaluating potential treatment centers: accreditation and licensing, evidence-based treatments, and red flags to watch out for.

Importance of Accreditation and Licensing

Accreditation and licensing are crucial indicators of the quality and credibility of a rehab center. These credentials ensure the facility meets established standards for patient care and safety. It's important to ask if the facility is licensed and accredited when considering treatment options. Reputable rehab centers should be transparent about their credentials and be willing to provide verification if requested [4].

Evidence-Based Treatments

Evidence-based treatments are therapies and interventions that have been proven effective through scientific research. These treatments are based on clinical evidence and are typically more successful in helping individuals overcome addiction. When evaluating a rehab center, it's essential to inquire about the evidence-based treatments they offer. These might include cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication-assisted treatment, or family therapy. A reputable treatment center will assess your health and life circumstances to recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Red Flags in Treatment Centers

While there are many reputable rehab centers available, it's also important to be aware of potential red flags. One major red flag is a center that does not believe in using FDA-approved medications for alcohol or opioid addiction. These medications are often a crucial part of recovery and their absence in a treatment plan can be a sign the facility is not following evidence-based practices.

Another red flag is patient brokering, where individuals are hired to recruit patients for rehab centers in exchange for financial compensation. This practice is unethical and not allowed in any area of medicine. A reputable facility should always prioritize the patient's health and well-being over financial gain.

In conclusion, choosing the right rehab center is a crucial step in the recovery process. By considering the center's accreditation and licensing, the evidence-based treatments they offer, and being aware of potential red flags, you can make an informed decision that best supports the recovery journey. Remember, "treatment works" (NCBI Bookshelf), and choosing the right rehab center can significantly improve the chances of a successful recovery.

Support Resources for Families

When addressing substance abuse in children, the support of the family is paramount. There are numerous resources available to provide the necessary assistance to parents, guardians, and other family members. Let's take a look at some of these resources.

Parent-to-Parent Support Services

Parents who are seeking support while navigating the complex world of children's substance abuse have several resources at their disposal. One of these is the Parent-to-Parent Support services, which include online support groups and a helpline available at 1-866-366-3667. These resources offer a safe space to find emotional support, share experiences, and learn from others who are facing similar challenges. It's a valuable community of understanding and empathy for parents dealing with the harsh realities of substance abuse in children Health Canada.

Indigenous-Specific Resources

For Indigenous families dealing with substance abuse, there are specialized, culturally sensitive resources available. Programs such as the National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program and the National Youth Solvent Abuse Program provide tailored services to Indigenous peoples. These programs not only offer support for substance use issues but also integrate aspects of cultural identity and holistic well-being. By incorporating these unique elements, Indigenous-specific resources offer a comprehensive and culturally congruent approach to substance abuse treatment Health Canada.

Naloxone Training and Chronic Pain Support

In cases of opioid abuse or overdose, having a naloxone kit and knowing how to use it can be life-saving. It's recommended to visit the Canadian Mental Health Association's Naloxone 101 Toolkit to learn how, why, and when to use a naloxone kit, and where to obtain one for free. The toolkit offers comprehensive training on naloxone use, which can be invaluable in emergency situations Health Canada.

In conclusion, support resources for families are a crucial component in the journey of child drug rehab. They provide a lifeline for those grappling with the impact of substance abuse and offer guidance on the do’s and don’ts for getting your child into drug rehab. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you navigate this challenging path.

Success in Substance Abuse Treatment

Understanding the success factors in substance abuse treatment is crucial to making informed decisions about the do’s and don'ts for getting your child into drug rehab. This section examines the goals of substance abuse treatments, contributing factors to successful treatment, and the effectiveness of inpatient versus outpatient treatments.

Goals of Substance Abuse Treatment

The primary goal of specialized substance abuse treatment programs is to attain and maintain abstinence for most patients, with the exception of methadone-maintained patients, for whom total abstinence is strongly associated with a positive long-term prognosis [5]. Treatment programs also aim to address complex problems in various aspects of living, such as medical and mental illnesses, disrupted relationships, vocational skills, and legal issues.

Factors Contributing to Successful Treatment

Multiple factors contribute to successful substance abuse treatment. Nearly 90% of individuals who remain abstinent for two years are also drug- and alcohol-free at ten years. Patients who stay in treatment for longer periods are more likely to reap maximum benefits, with a treatment episode lasting three months or longer often predicting a successful outcome. Furthermore, continuing participation in aftercare or self-help groups post-treatment is associated with success [5].

Evaluations of substance abuse treatment efforts have shown encouraging results, with the majority of substance-dependent patients eventually stopping compulsive use and experiencing less frequent and severe relapse episodes. Different programs and approaches have variable rates of success, but overall, "treatment works".

Moreover, it's worth noting that treatment for drug addiction has a similar success rate as treatment for other chronic medical conditions like hypertension, asthma, and diabetes. Both drug addiction and these chronic medical conditions require behavioral change and medication compliance for successful treatment [5].

Inpatient vs. Outpatient Treatment Effectiveness

Substance abuse treatment is delivered in inpatient and outpatient settings. No clear correlation has been found between treatment setting and successful outcomes. Most patients can benefit from treatment in either setting, with specific subgroups responding optimally to particular environments [5].

The decision between inpatient and outpatient treatment should be based on the individual's specific needs and circumstances. Factors to consider include the severity and duration of substance use, the presence of any co-occurring mental or physical health conditions, the individual's home environment and support system, and their previous experiences with treatment.

In conclusion, success in substance abuse treatment is attainable and is influenced by various factors. Understanding these factors can guide individuals and families in making the right decisions about treatment and recovery.