Get the Truth on Addiction

9
Facts about Addiction
People Usually Get Wrong

There’s a lot of stigma and misunderstanding with substance use disorders, treatmente and recovery.
But you should never let social judgment stand in the way of getting your child the help he or she needs and deserves. Here are nine facts to know so you can be better prepared to help your child.

For more information, please visit drugfree.org

Like the infographic? Read more, or download the booklet at:

Ninety percent of people with addictions started using substances in their teen years. Beginning at age 10 through the mid- to late-20s, massive changes are underway in the brain. This includes the development of capabilities related to impulse control, managing emotions, problem-solving and anticipating consequences. Substance use during this time period can prime the brain to be more susceptible to addiction and other mental health disorders, especially for kids who are vulnerable. If your child has already started drug use, visit:

Figuring out if your child is using substances can be challenging. Many signs of drug use in teens are typical young adult behavior. Many signs of drug use are also symptoms of mental health issues, including depression or anxiety.

If you have reason to suspect use, do not be afraid to err on the side of caution. Prepare to take action and have a conversation during which you can ask direct questions like “Have you been drinking, vaping or using drugs?” No parent wants to hear “yes,” but being prepared for how you would respond can be the starting point for a more positive outcome.

Read how to spot signs, and how and where to look for signs of drug abuse, at:

What should I do if someone I know needs help?

RECOVERY, ADDICTION REHAB, SPIRITUAL HELP

Reach out to New Day Recovery Ministry (a ministry of Pacific Garden Mission):

We desire to meet the physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional needs of each individual.

Our New Day Recovery Ministry for men and women features:

  • A structured 90-day residential treatment that is free of charge
  • Meals, room, and board
  • Expert care through individual and group counseling sessions
  • All counselors are CADC certified
  • Individualized client-centered treatment plans
  • Limited onsite medical care
Rescue
  • Refresh from the chaotic lifestyle of addiction
  • Reveal reasons for addiction
  • Rebirth and new life by understanding the power of the Gospel
  • Realize how certain behaviors have led to addiction
  • Relationships that are unhealthy and their impact
  • Recognizing personal triggers
  • Recommit to a life of abstinence from substances
  • Restoration of relationship with God and others
  • Relapse prevention plan for each individual
  • Christ-centered
  • The authority of Scripture
  • Reliance on the Holy Spirit
  • Seeing the worth of every individual
  • Prioritizing felt needs
  • Interconnectivity with the local church

SUICIDE, INTERVENTION, IMMEDIATE CRISIS

If you, or a friend, are in crisis and need to speak with someone now:

  • Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (they don’t just talk about suicide—they cover a lot of issues and will help put you in touch with someone close by)
  • Call Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP ( 4357 ). They offer free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.

GENERAL EDUCATION, PREVENTION, OR STEPPING TOWARDS FREEDOM

If you want helpful resources to help a peer, friend, or family member you can:

  • Share resources from this website, including this page.
  • Point your friend to NIDA’s Step by Step Guide for Teens and Young Adults.
  • Encourage your friend or family member to speak with a trusted adult.
  • Note: If a friend or loved one is abusing drugs, alcohol, or sex/porn you might have to put boundaries or step away for a while. It is important to protect your own mental health and not put yourself in situations where you could be tempted or forced to do something bad for your mind or body.

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