If you think your child may have a problem with drugs or alcohol, here are some things to consider:

• Acknowledge the problem and resolve to deal with it.
  Address the problem but don’t overreact. Calmly and prayerfully consider what to do to help your child and your family.
  
  
• Understand the bigger problem.
  Drugs and alcohol are often used to stop feeling bad, to avoid or dull pain from past hurts, disappointments and stress. Peer pressure and curiosity also may play a role.
  
  
• Get your facts straight first.
  Understand the nature of substance abuse before confronting your child. Different substances (both legal and illegal) have different effects and dangers. This will help you speak with knowledge and authority. For more information about specific drugs click here.
  
  
• Prepare to confront your child.
  Search your heart for ways in which you may have failed your child. Honestly confess and apologize to both your child and to God if you need to. Select a comfortable setting where you won’t be disturbed or interrupted and where your child won’t feel threatened.
  
  
• Confront.
  Don’t preach, but show your child they are loved unconditionally. Help them understand that no matter how upset or hurt you are, you want to hear the truth. Share with them what you know or suspect about their drug or alcohol use. Allow them the opportunity to admit the truth. Be firm that you cannot allow the substance use to continue because you love them. They must understand that you "mean business." Share that the love of God is the only way to fill the void in their life.
  
  
• Moving on.
  They may not want to listen or believe you. They may need to hear the facts about drugs and alcohol from someone who’s been there. Start with your local church. Contact a Christian organization such as Teen Challenge who can address the spiritual problem at the root of the substance abuse. This will be difficult, but ignoring the problem could have a tragic and deadly outcome for both your child and your family.

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