Many people are familiar with structured intervention starts as a conversation between the parents and their teenager who is using drugs. If that relationship is strained, the parents might want to call upon a trusted relative who has a good relationship with their teen.
Before talking to your teenager it is important to have a plan, and to ensure that both parents are in agreement on the issues. You also need to have an agreed upon action plan that includes substance abuse treatment for your teenager. This often means that teen rehab is most appropriate. To complete this portion of the planning, you might need to do some research into drug use, drug abuse, warning signs, and teen treatment options.
The final step in the planning is to select a time for the conversation. It is likely that you will need to be a bit flexible on this item as it is very important that the conversation take place when your teen is not high, drunk, or obviously under the influence. It is best to do this when your teenager is calm and able to listen, absorb, and participate in the conversation.
The Message You Want to Convey
It is very important that you express your love to your teenager, and ensure that he or she understands that you are taking this step because of your concern for his or her welfare. You also need to tell your teenager that what they have to say is important. During the conversation, all parties need to listen and be respectful of each other.
A key portion of the conversation is to express your concern for the health, welfare, and well-being of your child. As parents, these are all part of the job description, but it is important that your child understand that you are acting in their best interests and concern over teen addiction. You then need to discuss with your teen all of the behavior and warning signs that you have observed in his or her behavior that have brought you to this point. This should also include the impact that their behavior is having on the rest of the family.
Share with your teenager what you have learned in the research you have done on drug abuse. Make them aware of some of the potential results of continued drug use, including the fact that out of control drug use can lead to death.
The Results You Want to Achieve