Experimentation with alcohol and drugs during is common. While some teens will experiment and stop, or continue to use occasionally, without significant problems, others will develop a dependency, moving on to more dangerous drugs and causing significant harm to themselves and possibly others.
Teenagers at risk for developing serious alcohol and drug problems include those:
- With a family history of substance abuse
- Who are depressed
- Who have low self-esteem
- Who feel like they don’t fit in or are out of the mainstream
The most commonly used illegal drugs are marijuana (pot), stimulants (cocaine, crack, and speed), LSD, PCP, opiates, heroin, and designer drugs (Ecstasy).
Warning signs of teenage alcohol and drug abuse may include:
- Fatigue, repeated health complaints, red and glazed eyes, and a lasting cough.
- Personality change, sudden mood changes, irritability, irresponsible behavior, low self-esteem, poor judgment, depression, and a general lack of interest.
- Starting arguments, breaking rules, or withdrawing from the family.
- Decreased interest in school, negative attitude, drop in grades, many absences, truancy, and discipline problems.
- New friends who are less interested in standard home and school activities, problems with the law, and changes to less conventional styles in dress and music.
If you have concerns you may want to consult a physician to rule out physical causes of the warning signs.
Eligibility Criteria:
Any Child / Teen and their family who are experiencing or suspect that their child may be playing with drugs.
Insurance(s) Accepted:
Self-pay and most private insurances including: UBH/UH, Aetna, Humana, Cigna, Blue Cross, Blue Shield and TRICARE.
Hours
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Evenings and weekends upon request.