Convincing your child to see a substance abuse counselor is a huge step forward. The biggest hurdle is getting him or her to acknowledge there’s a problem. Next, you have to get them to see that perhaps someone from the outside can help fix it. However, not just any type of professional will do. You need to work with someone whom your son or daughter feels comfortable with and trusts.
Young Adult Drug Abuse is Serious and Widespread
The National Institute on Drug Abuse explains that 5.9% of young adults report abusing prescription drugs. This figure includes individuals as young as 18 and as old as 25 years of age. It’s vital to recognize that prescription drug abuse is rarely the only substance misuse in this demographic. Concurrently, many also binge drink, use cocaine, street drugs, and marijuana.
Working with the Right Substance Abuse Counselor Makes a Difference
Young adults are in a vulnerable position. Typically, their first attempt to leave the nest is a difficult transition. They possibly fell into the wrong situation and started down the wrong path. An overbearing parent can make matters much worse.
The same goes for a counselor. This professional cannot be an extension of parental control or influence. Instead, they need to be a specialist who works independently with the young adult. In essence, this expert should be the employee hired by the client – even if you, the parent, did so.
The goal of treatment is for your child to open up about the reasons behind his or her substance abuse. This step is invaluable for the prevention of future relapses. While working with your child, the counselor might use modalities such as:
- Participation in a family wellness program, which helps to bring everyone on the same page
- Individualized talk therapy that helps the program participant to think through the feelings, thoughts, and actions associated with using
- Group therapy participation, which teaches healthy peer interactions and boosts the development of self-esteem
- 12-Step program attendance in groups that cater to young adults rather than older participants
- Experiential programs that encourage future independence through skill building
Young Adults Need Special Care
One size doesn’t fit all when discussing recovery, and young adults are no exception to the rule. in many cases, some are too young or inexperienced to avoid self-destructive habits.
At our Maryland rehab center, your child has the opportunity to start over. On our vast addiction treatment campus, Our experts use evidence-based techniques during our Young Adult Program that get results. Learn about Ashley Addiction Treatment at 866-313-6307 today!