fice with no obvious physical findings. Substance abuse problems are more likely to be discovered by physicians when adolescents are injured in accidents occurring while under the influence, or when they are brought for medical services because of intentional efforts to hurt themselves. Clinical findings often depend on the substance abused, the frequency of use, and the length of time since last used, and may include the following:
- Weight loss
- Constant fatigue
- Red eyes
- Little concern for hygiene
Specific treatment for substance abuse/chemical dependence will be determined by your adolescent's doctor based on:
- Your adolescent's age, overall health, and medical history
- Extent of your adolescent's symptoms
- Extent of your adolescent's dependence
- The substance abused
- Your adolescent's tolerance for specific medications or therapies
- Expectations for the course of the condition
- Your opinion or preference
A variety of treatment programs for substance abuse are available on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Programs considered are usually based on the type of substance abused. Medical detoxification (if needed, based on the substance abused) and long-term follow-up management are important features of successful treatment. Long-term follow-up management usually includes formalized group meetings and age-appropriate psychosocial support systems, as well as continued medical supervision. Individual and family psychotherapy are often recommended to address the developmental, psychosocial, and family issues that may have contributed to and resulted from the development of a substance abuse disorder.
There are three major approaches used to prevent adolescent substance use and abuse, including the following:
- School-based prevention programs. School-based prevention programs usually provide drug and alcohol education and interpersonal and behavior skills training.
- Community-based prevention programs. Community-based prevention programs usually involve the media and are aimed for parents and community groups. Programs, such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD), are the most well-known, community-based programs.
- Family-focused prevention programs. Family-focused prevention programs involve parent training, family skills training, adolescent social skills training, and family self-help groups. Research literature available suggests that components of family-focused prevention programs have decreased the use of alcohol and drugs in adolescents and improved effectiveness of parenting skills.
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