Alan Stevens, who is 14 years old, is smoking marijuana almost daily and experimenting with a number of other drugs.
Mention the word "treatment" in relation to substance use and many people think of long-term residential facilities or detox.
Does your loved one have any of the following symptoms?
There are a number of resources available.
You may feel that absolutely no one can help you — that you and your family have to suffer alone.
This story illustrates the concept of enabling.
People often worry that initiating a discussion will lead the person with the problem to take drastic steps.
Although you probably want the substance use to stop as soon as possible, immediate abstinence has certain risks, including withdrawal symptoms with serious medical consequences.
If you are noticing problems in work, health, family, finances, relationships, social functioning, legal issues, self-esteem or self-respect, you are not overreacting.
Rudy is in his 30s, single, and a computer programmer. Almost every Saturday, for four years, he has played football with buddies from college.
How much a family is affected by a substance use problem depends on how long they have lived with it, how advanced it is, how much shame and secrecy surround it, and the roles and responsibilities of. . .
If you feel there is a problem — do something now. It's better to intervene early.