Teen Addiction Recovery and the Effects of Family Involvement

Finding out that your child is struggling with addiction can be nothing short of a nightmare. The reason this addiction stems from may not even be related to you. However, as a parent, you may be left wondering whether it was something you said, did, or may have been responsible for that led your child to seek comfort through addictive substances.

It is important to note that addiction is prevalent among teenagers. Instead of beating yourself up over where you went wrong and how you could have done a better job at parenting, it is essential to focus on your child and how to help them recover.

The involvement of the family can have a significant impact on a teenager that has fallen victim to substance abuse. Family involvement not only gives teenagers the support they need during their lowest point, but it also helps them stay motivated and on track to get back on their feet swiftly. 

If you have already sought the assistance of a rehabilitation facility, here are a few things you can do at home to help your teenager recover from their addiction:

Remain Involved and Actively Communicate Your Ideas

Rehab works, but it is not the only thing that does. Your child may be undergoing treatment, but that does not mean that your role in the process is over. 

No matter how old they get, teenagers still look up to their parents for guidance and support. Don’t shy away from sharing your thoughts on the treatment, therapies, and any medication prescribed. 

You can help by reading about these therapies and helping your child understand how they have worked for other individuals from similar backgrounds and age groups. This makes the process more relatable and gives your child an active channel of communication outside the facility. 

By openly addressing the elephant in the room, you can learn more about your child and what made them resort to using substances in the first place. This can help you grow as a person, a parent, and a caregiver while simultaneously strengthening your bond with your child. 

Refrain From Turning Addiction Into a Taboo

Did you know that most teenagers resort to using addictive substances when they feel there is nowhere to go and no one would understand their situation? Addiction can happen to anyone, anywhere, even in the most seemingly “perfect” households. 

However, it is crucial to understand that addiction itself may not harm your child half as much as your aloofness and ignorance will.

If your child is suffering, addiction should no longer be taboo in the house. It should not be looked down upon as something shameful and embarrassing. A home is where a child should feel safe, and families support, guide, love, and nurture without judgments. 

Addiction-shaming causes young adults to stop communicating their thoughts and lose any shred of willpower they possess to overcome their struggle. This not only strains and permanently damages your relationship with your child, but it also makes recovery much more complex, tedious, and prone to frequent relapses. 

Remain Patient Through Episodes of Withdrawal 

Addiction affects every individual differently. There is no set pattern of the series of events you can expect before, during, and after therapy, which is why family involvement is so critical. 

Perhaps you have a child who is now looking forward to treatment and everything that comes with it with your support and guidance. Or you might be dealing with a teenager that has not come to terms with their addiction and does not wish to seek treatment.

In either case, you will eventually come face to face with a greater demon: withdrawal. When the human body gets accustomed to the high that comes from an addictive substance, it craves it when the substance is absent from the body. The feeling is more of a “need” than a “want,” and is accompanied by often intense physical and psychological symptoms. 

During these episodes, your teenager might act out, get frustrated, or show anger and agitation. It is in these very moments that family support can make all the difference in the world.

Parents and siblings should come together to give their undivided attention, love, and support to the teen in need. The role that each member will play during this time is crucial for recovery, mental health, and relapse prevention. 

By creating a positive and welcoming environment at home, you are helping your child understand that they are surrounded by unconditional love and that you are with them every step along the way to recovery.

Unfortunately, many teenagers struggle with addiction. As a parent, you may feel lost, confused, and heartbroken. You may be unsure of what to do. While treatment is an excellent option, the importance of family involvement cannot be underestimated.

The participation of the entire family goes a long way in helping a teenager steer away from substance abuse and addiction. Showing compassion, educating yourself, and lending a listening ear to your teen struggling can significantly help them heal.

While The Forge Recovery Center does not treat adolescents, we can help you find a facility that fits the needs of you and your family. No matter who you are, The Forge is here to support you every step of the way.

If you wish to learn more about how you can stay involved with your recovering teenager to show your support, give us a call today.

Written by

Brian Moore

Content Writer

Reviewed by

Jeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

April 22, 2022