How To Stop My Teenager From Smoking Marijuana
Teen marijuana addiction has spread like an epidemic in the world, especially in the United States. According to the data presented by the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA), there were 455,000 reported emergency visits because of marijuana use, and 13% of them were young teens aged 12-17.
Undoubtedly, dealing with teen marijuana addiction is difficult for both the child and the parents. When a teen gets addicted, parents often blame themselves. They think they did not do a good job protecting and guiding their child. They might feel guilty, sad, and emotionally traumatized.
However, if you find out that your teen is currently addicted to Marijuana or any other substance, you should not blame yourself or your child. Both of you are victims of a highly addictive drug. Being emotionally stable and finding ways to overcome this issue is your number one priority. If you are here, trying to help your child regarding how to quit Marijuana or how to stop taking cocaine, then you’re already doing a good job. Make the right decisions to save your teen’s life and dreams.
Signs of Marijuana Addiction or Abuse Among Teens
- Redness of the eyes.
- Increased blood pressure.
- Forgets things easily
- Frequent headaches and dizziness.
- Smiling or laughing without reason.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Extreme panic and anxiety attacks.
- Hallucinations.
7 Ways To Stop Your Teenager From Smoking Marijuana
1) Have Regular Conversations
2) Talk About the Risks
3) Debunk Marijuana Myths
- Myth: “Marijuana is not bad. It is natural.”
- Truth: Not everything natural is good, like tobacco or oleander, for example. They are all-natural plants, but they can take someone’s life.
- Myth: “Marijuana is not addictive.”
- Truth: All substances that are capable of affecting the human brain are addictive. Marijuana users eventually need to take higher doses to achieve the same “high,” which leads to addiction.
- Myth: “Marijuana is safe to use since it is being legalized.”
- Truth: Prescription drugs and alcohol are legal, but they are not safe when used without moderation or proper guidance. Over a million people have developed disorders due to marijuana addiction.
4) Keep Yourself Involved in Their Lives
The parents’ presence in the endeavors of their children is essential. Studies suggest that the involvement and guidance of parents can help their teens not to try drugs or stop using addictive substances like Marijuana.
5) Know Their Social Circle
6) Establish Rules and Limits
- “Don’t drink alcohol until you turn 21.”
- “You must tell me the address of where you are going to hang out.”
- “Give me a heads-up about the parties you want to go to, at least 1-2 days before the event.”
- “You have to give me the contact details of your friends, so I can get in touch with them if something happens.”
- “Charge your phone every time you leave the house and make sure it is on.”
- “Send me a message in our code in case you need help.”
7) Participate in Community-Based Prevention Programs
Participating in this kind of activity will affect the life decisions of your teen, especially at their young age, where curiosity is at its peak. For those who are already facing challenges, understanding the types of troubled teen programs can be a lifesaver. Early prevention saves a lot of time, finances, and lives. This will also be a great time to strengthen your bond with your child.
How To Stop My Teenager From Smoking Marijuana: More Tips for Parents
Consider your Parenting Style
Start the Conversation Early
Improve their Spiritual Aspects
Building the spiritual aspects of your child might help them make healthy decisions in life. Several types of research suggest that children who participate in religious activities are less likely to try drugs or have addiction problems. This could also let them express themselves with more ease if they are struggling with other issues.
In addition to these tips, it may be beneficial to consider professional help if your teenager is struggling with marijuana addiction. Key Healthcare offers an intensive outpatient program for teens that provides intensive therapy and support in a less restrictive setting than residential treatment.
Sometimes, Marijuana or other teen drug addictions are serious, and parents cannot solve them on their own. Teen drug rehab or teen nicotine rehab center is often necessary. We offer several levels of care for families, and our highest level of care is our therapist recommended teen residential treatment program. If you think that you or your child needs help, do not hesitate to contact us for assistance. The best time to act is now.