Whether your son’s still a teen or already a young adult in college, he’s susceptible to society’s mixed messages. He may wonder, “Is alcohol a drug? If yes, then why’s everyone doing it? If not, what’s the problem?”
Adding insult to injury, getting through to him can be a challenge, but it’s possible with the right treatment.
Everyone’s Doing It
When your son was little, he wanted to know why he couldn’t do something his friend got away with. Back then your answer was simple: because you’re not his friend’s parent. Once they’re older or on their way out of the nest, conversations with young adults get tougher. Now, they see their friends drinking and enjoying themselves while doing so.
In fact, drinking is quickly becoming part of the young adult culture. It’s going on in college, at parties and at fraternity events. Although most of these activities aren’t school-sanctioned, administrators and school officials frequently turn a blind eye to substance abuse. And, of course, nobody from the peer group talks about alcohol addiction.
When Is Alcohol a Drug?
Your son’s had exposure to a variety of songs, online interactions and video games that depict alcohol use. He’s seen the advertisements on cable TV. In other words, consistent exposure since early childhood has probably desensitized him.
However, the turning point comes when he doesn’t just drink in a social setting. Instead, he might have a few drinks alone because he’s bored. He might be unhappy and want to escape. Maybe he’s shy, and a few drinks loosen him up.
Over time, he overdoes it. He begins to rely on drinking to give him confidence, help him fit in, and make him feel accepted. Now, he doesn’t feel comfortable unless he’s tipsy or drunk. His body begins to alert him when he’s gone too long without the alcohol.
Overcoming an Addiction to Alcohol
When your son begins exhibiting physical withdrawal symptoms, it’s time to consider addiction treatment. If he’s honest with himself and with you, he now knows the answer to the question, “Is alcohol a drug?” Fortunately, there’s hope for him and his future. Although things might look bleak right now, he can rebuild his life and refocus it to exclude drinking.
For this reason, Ashley Addiction Treatment in Maryland has put together a life-changing young adult extended care program specifically for young men between 18–25 years old. Our 90-day program includes various treatment approaches, including:
- Workshops that focus specifically on the needs and challenges of young adults with a substance abuse problem
- Group therapy sessions that allow your son to build new peer relationships outside of drinking buddies
- Access to onsite medical care (including detox) to get him ready for rehab and recovery
- Recreational therapy that introduces young adults to fitness and yoga, which help with stress relief
- Practical programs that help young adults transition to independent living without feeling the need to get artificial confidence from a bottle
Don’t let your son continue to struggle. Call Ashley Addiction Treatment today at 866-313-6307.
