Warning Signs for Adolescent Addiction

Whether it is psychiatric or substance abuse issues or both, the earlier you get help for your teen, the better their immediate and long-term future is likely to be.

Addiction is an enigma; most people can convince themselves they don’t suffer from it. When it comes to our children, addiction is even more difficult to come to terms with. Most parents wonder how this could have happened to their child. It is vital you find the right adolescent addiction treatment center, your child’s life may depend on it. 

It can be hard to tell if the troubling behavior in a teen is just part of growing up or a problem which should be discussed with a health professional. If you have noticed signs or symptoms which have lasted for weeks or months and interfere with your teen’s daily life at home, school or friends, you should contact a health professional.

Your teen may need professional help if he or she:

• Is often anxious or worried

• Has frequent tantrums or is unusually irritable much of the time

• Has frequent stomachaches or headaches with no physical explanation

• Is in contact motion, can’t sit quietly for any length of time

• Avoids spending time with friends

• Loses interest in things they used to enjoy

• Declining grades at school

• Always worried about their weight, obsessive exercise or weight loss concerns

• Very low or no energy

• Harms themselves, such as cutting or burning

• Engages in risky or destructive behavior

• Smoking, drinking or drug use

• Thoughts of suicide

• Thinks their mind is out of control or hears voices

• Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares

Early intervention makes it more likely that your teen can recover socially, academically and emotionally. Ignoring bad behavior can make the situation worse and can hurt your teen’s emotional well-being, social development, and academic performance. It can also affect the well-being of your whole family, the long-term relationship with your teen and your other children.

If you think your child or adolescent may require professional help, contact GenPsych to speak with one of our health professionals.

GenPsych offer an Adolescent Program that helps teens overcome their unique challenges at home, in school and socially so they can gain confidence, take control and stay on track. Click here to learn more.