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How to deal with a drug addicted youth

Do you suspect, or know, that your child is doing drugs? This is a situation that would be any parent’s nightmare, but unfortunately it happens all too often. It’s a tricky situation to deal with, so here are some tips on how to navigate the murky waters with the best chance of getting through to your child and helping them get on the road to recovery.

Don’t attack them
The last thing you want is to get your son or daughter on the defensive. It’s a tough question to ask, so accusing them and attacking them is only going to make the, retreat, deny and get defensive. Also, if they’re under the influence at the time, their brain is not operating as it normally would, which could make them prone to overreacting, or even violence. Make sure that you raise the issue as calmly as you can without being insulting or rude. For example, say ‘I would like to see if I can help you through this hard time’, rather than ‘you’re addicted to drugs and you need to stop!’.

Give them no way out
Of course, their most likely reaction will be to deny, deny, deny, unfortunately, a lot of confrontations or interventions don’t move past this stage. If the person can’t admit to having problem, how can you help them change? Offering proof can help you get past this hurdle. A private investigator is a great resource for you to be able to get the proof you need to be confident when you confront them and, if need be, give you the evidence to gently move past the ‘I’m not doing drugs’ part of the conversation.

Make it easy for them to admit it
Try offering them the words to own up to their problem. Instead of vague questions like ‘is there something you want to tell me?’, try something like ‘what do you think about your current drug use situation?’ or ‘do you want to change anything about your current habits?’.

Listen without judgement
The hardest part of dealing with a youth on drugs is your own emotions. You’ll feel angry, disappointed, frustrated and scared. It can be easy to let these emotions get in the way of a proper discussion with your child. Instead of judging their choices, try to understand them. Be ready to listed without interjecting with angry or judgemental statements. Just listen and offer your help.

Offer a way out
The whole reason you’ve gone to the trouble of looki into their habits, getting evidenc if if and what they’re doing and have decided to do something about it is because you care about them and want them to get better. Drugs can destroy a person’s life, so when it’s you’re child, offer them a way to get them better. Bring details about support groups, drug rehab centres, or even just the offer of ‘I’m here to help.’

Whatever you do, just make sure you know as much as you can before you go in there. Knowing 100% that your child is on drugs, what drugs they’re involved with and how often will give you the tools you need to help them recover.

If you have suspicions about your child or loved one, our detectives can help you get the necessary proof (or peace of mind). Please call us today to speak with one of our discreet detectives. We have the highest degree of experience and skill, and know how to get you the truth you need to move past this difficult stage in yours and your child’s life. Give us a call on 1300 721 715 or email info@eliteinvestigations.com.au to see how we might be able to help you.