Finding out that your teenager is smoking weed can be heartbreaking. Whether you caught them in the act or they admitted it to you, the next steps that you take are critical for their long-term health and happiness. While teens have often been known to engage in rebellious acts over the years, those who experiment with marijuana frequently discover that they cannot stop as easily as they thought. If you suspect that your teen may be smoking marijuana, here are a few steps you should take to make sure that he or she does not face the consequences of becoming a chronic user.
Your first step is to find out for sure if your teen is actually using marijuana. Here are some signs that might suggest your teen is smoking pot:
- You find paraphernalia or smelled marijuana smoke on your teen
- Your teen is hanging out with known users of the drug
- Your teen wears clothing or listens to music that glorifies marijuana
- Your teen exhibits signs of being under the influence, such as having memory lapses or difficulty holding a clear conversation
If you suspect that your teen is using marijuana, you can confirm your suspicions by simply asking them if they are smoking or ingesting pot. Keep in mind, however, that your teen may lie if they believe that telling the truth will get them in trouble. In these instances, you may need to seek further proof of their marijuana use by having them take a drug test at home or in a professional setting.
One of the reasons for the increasing rates of teen marijuana use is that it is no longer depicted as dangerous in the media. Teens who read about the legalization of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes may begin to think that using the drug is low risk. While marijuana may be legal in certain states, the truth is that it is still illegal for teenagers to use. Marijuana also affects teenagers differently than it does adults, and your kid needs to know the facts.
Marijuana is often considered a gateway drug because kids who use it may be tempted to try experimenting with more potent substances to achieve different effects. Certain drugs like PCP can also be combined with marijuana to make the “high” much stronger. If you know that your teen is using marijuana, then you should find out if there are other forms of substance abuse in your child’s history. While you can ask them if they are using other drugs, you may need to seek a professional evaluation if they are not forthcoming. Keep in mind that teens often mix pot with alcohol, which can lead to coexisting addictions that must be treated at the same time.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
