If your child is diagnosed with a Substance Use Disorder, begin treatment immediately for best results. Substance abuse is a serious condition. Without treatment it is likely to get worse, rather than better.

“While the path to drug addiction begins with the voluntary act of taking drugs, over time a person’s ability to choose not to do so becomes compromised, and seeking and consuming the drug becomes compulsive. This behavior results largely from the effects of prolonged drug exposure on brain functioning. Addiction is a brain disease that affects multiple brain circuits, including those involved in reward and motivation, learning and memory, and inhibitory control over behavior.” – National Institute on Drug Abuse

We urge families to make treatment decisions for substance abuse the way they would for other serious medical issues. Families typically do not put off health care treatments for other serious issues like cancer or diabetes.

…Over time a person’s ability to choose not to [take drugs] becomes compromised, and seeking and consuming the drug becomes compulsive.

Why Begin Treatment Immediately?

We know parents are trying to balance all of their family’s needs when making decisions about treatment. Nevertheless, clients should begin treatment immediately for best results. When your child begins treatment quickly, you will see results faster. Adolescents also may use an intermediary period to try to convince their parents that they no longer need treatment. Waiting to begin a program can give teens a chance to continue using for a longer period of time.

If a parent does not agree with a recommendation, he or she can seek out a second opinion. This should be done as quickly as possible. Reputable organizations can help you find a different clinician to perform another assessment.

Assessments are valid for one month due to state regulations. After two weeks, a brief reassessment may be needed to begin treatment due to the possible rapid changes in an adolescent’s use.