Substance Abuse

Challenge

• Is your child experiencing difficulty with work, school, or home – such as repeated absences, suspension, and expulsion?
• If you know your child is using, are they placing themselves in situations where it is physically dangerous, such as driving while impaired?
• Are they experiencing legal problems or repercussions, such as arrests, for disorderly conduct that are substance-related?
• Are they having persistent or recurring social or personal problems caused or worsened by substance abuse?
• Do you notice that they use substances such as alcohol, drugs or tobacco as a crutch to ‘numb’ their mind or feelings?

Substance abuse is the harmful pattern of using substances – such as tobacco, alcohol, vaping (THC and nicotine), illicit or prescription drugs – leading to impairment or distress. This, with time, becomes an addiction. Substance abuse and problematic patterns of substance use among young people can lead to problems at school, and cause or aggravate physical and mental health-related issues, promote poor peer relationships, cause accidents, and place stress on the family.

Option

Substance abuse matters are tough to overcome, and it can be incredibly difficult to witness someone you love, particularly your child, experience addiction. However, there is hope. There are evidence based therapies that can effectively treat substance abuse disorders. Peer support groups and group therapy sessions can also be useful.

This time will be difficult, but congratulations in taking the first step and looking for help! Don’t be afraid to take the next step and reach out.

At Northside Psychology, we are here to support you and your children. This time will be difficult, but congratulations in taking the first step and looking for help! Don’t be afraid to take the next step and reach out.