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 "Parents can make a difference. Your kid may be mad now, but they will thank you later."
— Kate, 19-year-old college student

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Building Your Support Group

The key step in dealing with a substance abuse problem is finding a trusted, professional counselor. They are trained to listen and can help you find solutions to your problems. Most communities have established local coalitions that can support your family through this difficult time. Whatever path you take at this point, know that there are many caring professionals that want to help you successfully work through the situation. Although it may be difficult to make the call, the earlier that you seek help for your child the better.

These are community and health specialists who can guide and inform you:

• School counselors and student assistance professionals
• Employee assistance professionals
• Family doctors or pediatricians
• Nurses
• Faith leaders
• Community health centers
• Adolescent prevention or treatment professionals
• Local community anti-drug coalitions

Ask your child if there is someone they trust
(like a coach or student adviser) and feel comfortable talking to. They shouldn’t necessarily make the final decision, but they are more likely to be an active participant if they have a say in what happens.

Seek advice from a health professional.
Take your child to the doctor or talk to the school nurse and ask him or her about screening your child for drugs and alcohol. This may involve the health professional asking your child a simple question or it may involve a urine or blood drug screen. Sharing your concerns with your health professional can help you get the advice and assistance you need. If you have an appointment with your child’s doctor, call ahead to make time to discuss this issue.

Other Parents Can Provide Support

Talk to other parents. It may also help to talk to other parents who have experienced what you are going through. Some communities have parent action groups or parent peer groups that meet informally to discuss parenting issues and discuss solutions. You may also find support via online parenting groups and community message boards. For more information on establishing a parent peer group, visit the National Families In Action
Web site.

For a comprehensive list of resources, or to search for a treatment facility, explore these areas within the Get Help area.