The biggest fear of any parent is finding out that their child is abusing substances. Unfortunately, all over the world these cases are on the rise. What makes the situation worse is that often these children or young adults end up leading a double life, making it difficult for those around them to help them.

A teen may be abusing addictive substances at school or with friends while leading a sober life at home. As a result, parents often never find out about their addiction. In addition, sometimes the changes in the behavior of an adolescent are confused with hormonal changes, normal in this age group, further camouflaging the problem.

Both parents are equally important to the upbringing and well-being of a child. However, these days even single parent families are increasing. Therefore, it is important for a father, as well as a mother, to be aware of and manage the symptoms of substance abuse in her child. Whenever such signs like lack of interest in school work, indifference, etc. are noticed, it becomes the parent’s responsibility to find out if their child has any kind of addiction and help them to recover.

Some of the ways that parents, specifically parents, can help their substance-addicted children to recover are:

1. trust your instincts: If someone as close to a child as a parent feels that their child might be abusing an addictive substance and needs help, it is important to discuss this directly with the child. A person should never ignore such feelings and discuss them in detail in order to provide the appropriate help to the child. The child may respond in an unexpected way that turns the argument into an altercation. In such situations, it is advisable to remain calm, as you may not be aware of the impact of this habit on her health. Alternatively, the child may admit to the problem and even ask for help. At such times, it is important to reassure the child and take him or her for appropriate counseling and treatment.
2. Violate privacy, if necessary: It is important to respect everyone’s privacy, including your child’s. Since a growing child expects a greater level of privacy in her life, a parent should inquire about his child’s activities as long as he does not violate her privacy. However, if the need arises, parents should not think of violating their children’s privacy, especially when it is required to protect the child.
3. Consult the adolescent’s pediatrician: Once it is confirmed that the child is abusing an illicit substance, it is important to ensure that the parent takes the child to the pediatrician to discuss treatment options. It is also important to find out if the child can be treated for her addiction at the pediatrician’s clinic. In addition to a thorough consultation, you should ensure a complete evaluation of the child and find out about appropriate treatment options and health care centers that focus on such problems.
4. Focus on the positive traits: To promote a positive attitude and behavior in children with substance abuse problems, it is important to praise their positive traits and activities. This will help build their self-esteem, as well as reinforce a healthy lifestyle.
5. practice self care: Practicing self-care is extremely important for parents of a child with an addiction problem. This is because the whole phase of helping the child to recover from her addiction can be difficult and can cause various health problems such as stress, depression, etc. A father can help his son recover from addiction faster if he takes care of himself first.

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Children always need the support, love and care of their parents to lead a healthy life. Therefore, parents need to make sure that their relationship with the child is strong enough to allow them to guide him on the right path.