Is your teen experimenting with drugs or alcohol to try and fit in, or are they trying to numb complicated emotions and feelings? Substance use can seem like a very adult way to cope with negative feelings—at the very least, it’s a fast, appealing way to just put off addressing why they might feel bad. Finding help for your teen can give them the tools they need to quit drinking or using drugs and find a healthier way to cope as they enter adulthood. Involving your loved ones in their recovery process is an important way to show family support and strengthen your relationship with your teen.

Why It’s Important to Involve the Family in Treatment

Research shows that clients in substance use treatment who are supported by engaged family members are more likely to stick to their treatment plans. They’re also more likely to experience better emotional well-being and have lower rates of relapse. But why?

Involving family members creates a support system strengthened by open communication and understanding during treatment. Parents and caregivers learn to recognize warning signs of relapse or mental health issues, provide consistent encouragement, and learn to work with their teens to overcome hurdles in the recovery journey.

Meeting Developmental Needs

Teens have specific developmental needs, including independence-seeking behaviors. Independence-seeking behaviors are natural parts of growing up and help to strengthen their sense of personal identity, explore social dynamics, and plan for the future. When the need for independence is ignored or repressed during recovery, it might not be as effective as meeting teens where they are on their own journey.

When parents—with professional support—are involved in treatment and recovery in the right capacity, rather than trying to coerce or force their teen into treatment, they can learn their appropriate role. Being supportive of teens as they quit drinking or using drugs is a delicate balance, and when done correctly, can allow them to include parents as a vital part of their support system.

How to Get and Stay Involved

If your teen is struggling with drugs or drinking, it’s normal to feel upset and have questions about what to do next. Remember, though, that they’re likely turning to substances as a way to cope with emotions that they don’t have a handle on. Be patient, open, and supportive.

• Talk to their healthcare provider – If you’re unsure if they’re using drugs or alcohol, your teen’s doctor should be able to do a substance use screening and help you find appropriate treatment resources.
• Meet with a professional – Discuss the best route for substance use treatment for your teen and include them in the process. There will likely be difficult conversations and strong emotions during this time, but it’s important to work together as a family.
• Engage in treatment – While your teen is in treatment, work with the professionals to understand your role and how you can support their recovery. This may include attending family therapy sessions, learning about addiction and mental health, and creating a plan for post-treatment support. You might also work on your own personal growth and seek support for your own well-being.
• Maintain open communication – After treatment, it’s important to continue having open and honest conversations with your teen about their recovery journey. Check in with them regularly, and don’t be afraid to discuss any concerns or challenges that may arise.

Recovery is possible, and your teen deserves the opportunity to have professional support as well as a strong and supportive family unit. Family First Adolescent Services will work with both your teen and family to provide evidence-based treatment and support for substance use and mental health issues.

Find Help by Calling Family First Today

Our expert team will work with your family to create a personalized treatment plan that includes both individual and family therapy. While your teen is in treatment, we’ll work closely with your family to create a healthier environment back home through family therapy sessions, parental education and support groups, and ongoing communication with our team. We’ll also provide at least a year of follow-up support once they complete treatment.

Don’t wait; call 888.904.5947 or contact us online now to get the support your family needs.