It is always ideal for an adolescent or young adult to come in for an evaluation by his or her own choice or at the request of a family member or friend. However, young people who are abusing drugs are often resistant to the idea of drug rehab and do not respond to these requests. This typically leads to an intervention. An intervention is a planned confrontation of the drug abuser's behavior. The best place for the family to start is educating themselves about drug abuse, addiction and their role in a drug abuse intervention. This learning process should always begin with a consultation with a professional substance abuse counselor. Success is much greater for parents who call or come in for an evaluation and form a plan with one of our counselors prior to a confrontation.
Since intervening with a young person who is abusing drugs can be a volatile and emotional situation, parents should walk into an intervention as prepared as possible. If an intervention is being planned, begin by speaking with a Pathway counselor or interventionist. This consultation offers parents:
Information about drug use
An understanding of addiction
Preparation for possible outcomes
Help choosing a treatment center
A chance for parents to make sure they present a unified front
Needed support to stand up to someone who is using
Drug addiction is progressive, the longer you wait, the worse it will become. It is always best to act NOW because some people do not survive. If your child is using drugs, he or she needs your help now. Don’t wait. Call Pathway at 877-921-4050.
The Pathway Program has locations in Phoenix and Gilbert Arizona. Our services are easily accessible from Scottsdale, Phoenix, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, Mesa, Glendale and Peoria.