Addiction

For parents/carers

This section is for parents and carers who may be worried that their teenager may be developing or currently has an addiction. It is also for parents who have a teenager who has a friend with an addiction. Parents and families play an important part in the recovery of a teenager from an addiction.

Four steps to assist with change

LEARN TO IDENTIFY

  • Learn to identify the early warning signs

  • Learn to talk to your teenager about addiction – download our PDF on addiction
  • Make a contract with them on agreed amounts of time and times of non use if it’s a behavioural addiction such as gaming
  • Be very clear in the contract as to what is expected and what steps will be taken should the contract not be adhered to

  • Place parental controls if it’s a behavioural addiction. Make sure access to temptation (e.g. screens) is reduced by having a clear use time
  • If it’s a chemical addiction take them to have a physical screening with your GP

  • Your teenager will need help and support to avoid relapse. Keep up your connection with them and continue to offer and provide support
  • If it’s a behavioural addiction such as gaming you need to keep consistent and clear boundaries, refer to the contract and be patient about change, rewarding small positives
  • If it’s a chemical addiction agree on random checks and be prepared to refer back to treatment if you suspect a relapse

Visit our Further Advice page for details of other organisations that can help.

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