Support for Parents of Children With Substance Abuse

If your child uses drugs, you are not alone. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a 2012 survey showed that 36.4 percent of high school seniors had used marijuana in the previous year while 14.8 percent had used a prescription drug to get high in the same period. Other drugs used by minors include alcohol, methamphetamine, Ecstasy and cocaine. Parents who have a child with a substance abuse problem can find support from many resources.

  1. Multidimensional Family Therapy

    • Substance abuse affects the entire family. It is normal to feel guilty, angry and depressed, and to wonder what you did wrong. A supportive therapist can help your family work through these emotions and fears in a healthy way. In addition, your therapist can analyze your family dynamics and past issues to help pinpoint the areas that might be contributing to the drug use. Depending on the circumstances, one or more family members might also benefit from individual therapy.

    Support Groups

    • Although a therapist can help you work through specific issues, a support group helps you realize you are not alone. Some groups are designed for parents, while others are open to anyone coping with a family member̵7;s substance abuse. Some programs, such as Al-Anon and Nar-Anon, use the 12-step model. Others are based on a variety of therapeutic approaches. Ask your child̵7;s rehab facility for referrals. You might need to try a few programs to find one that works for you. If you have other children, they might benefit from a support group, too.

    Online Support

    • Although some people prefer face-to-face support, the Internet is a valuable resource for families coping with substance abuse by one of its members. Like in-person support groups, online support groups run the gamut of styles and approaches. Some groups use a message board format, others an email list, and others run open chat rooms that might not be moderated. Try several resources to find the best match for you.

    Treatment Options for Children

    • If your child uses drugs, get help for her. Treatment options vary according to the child̵7;s needs. Short- or long-term residential facilities help a child detox in a safe, controlled manner. Outpatient programs provide many of the benefits of a residential program without the child leaving home. A 12-step group can help your child make a long-term commitment to sobriety, but only if the child is ready to make the change. Individual therapy and medications are also available. Call the Parents Toll-Free Helpline sponsored by Drugfree.org or a local drug treatment facility to develop a plan to help your child.

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