Addiction in young people does not always start with a “hard” drug or with daily use. Often the problem first shows up as mood swings, falling grades or new friends, and the family cannot tell whether it is a phase or something more serious. This guide explains which signs to look out for, how to talk to your son or daughter and what treatment designed for teenagers and young people involves.
Teenagers and drugs: why this stage is more delicate
The brain keeps maturing until well into the twenties, especially the areas that regulate impulses and decision-making. That is why starting to use drugs at an early age increases the risk of developing problems with them and of drugs interfering with studies, relationships and mental health. Alcohol and cannabis are usually the first substances young people come into contact with.
Professionals working in substance dependence are also seeing new patterns of use that begin earlier and call for a specific approach: you do not work with a 15-year-old boy in the same way as with an adult with years of drug use behind them.
Addiction in young people: warning signs
No single sign proves that someone is using drugs, but it is worth paying attention if several of these build up:
- A sudden drop in school performance or missed classes.
- Marked mood swings, irritability or withdrawal.
- A sudden change of friends or interests.
- Needing money without explanation, or things going missing at home.
- Changes in sleep or appetite.
- Risky behaviour: aggression, reckless driving, trouble with the law or unprotected sex.
To find out more, see how addiction is detected.
How to talk to your child about drugs
The conversation works better as a dialogue than as an interrogation. Some guidelines:
- Choose your moment. Better when things are calm, not in the middle of an argument or when they have just come home under the influence of something.
- Ask and listen. Take an interest in what they think and what they see around them before giving your opinion.
- Inform without exaggerating. Alarmist messages lose credibility; clear information about effects and risks does not.
- Express concern, not just reproach. “I’m worried about how you are” opens more doors than “I knew it”.
- Set clear, consistent limits, agreed between the adults in the household.
- Look at your own example with alcohol, tobacco or medication.
If the conversation gets stuck or the drug use continues, seeking professional advice is not an overreaction: it is a way of caring. And you can ask for advice even if your child does not want to come.
How a programme for teenagers and young people works
The FSC programme supports teenagers and young people aged between 14 and 25 and their families. It aims to reduce or stop drug use and, at the same time, to prevent or detect other risk behaviours, such as aggression, school failure, reckless driving, eating problems, offending or risky emotional and sexual relationships.
For the teenager or young person
- Individual psychotherapy: a space of trust to assess whether it is a case of use, misuse or addiction, to help them become aware of what they are using and of other risky behaviours, and to motivate them to change.
- Psychiatric assessment by a psychiatrist specialising in teenagers and young people, to establish a diagnosis where appropriate.
- “Let’s talk about drug use” group: a group therapy space for thinking critically about drugs and their use.
- “Let’s talk about change” group: for young people with at least some motivation to stay abstinent. Participants share experiences and strategies for making the changes they need.
- Therapeutic accompaniment: a tutor is with the young person in their day-to-day life, in their own environment, to help them meet the agreed therapeutic or reintegration goals.
For the family
Families can receive support whether or not the young person attends treatment. The drug use situation is assessed and advice and guidelines tailored to each case are offered.
- Family therapy: sessions to learn about drugs, their effects and what they mean in the short, medium and long term; to learn how to detect drug use and other risk behaviours; and to work on strategies such as limits, communication, social skills within the family, understanding and empathy, and parenting style.
- Families group: a cycle of 6 structured sessions held every two weeks, with theoretical content, to understand substance dependence, gain tools that support change and share experiences with other families.
If you are looking for support as a family beyond this stage, see also the family support programme.
When to ask for help
Talk to a professional if the drug use keeps happening, if you notice it is affecting their studies or life at home, if they mix substances or drive under the influence, or if the family no longer knows how to respond. Ask for a free first appointment by calling +34 93 424 04 00; guidance is free of charge. In the event of an overdose or poisoning, or any emergency, call 112, the European emergency number.
Frequently asked questions
What ages does the programme for teenagers cover?
It supports boys and girls aged between 14 and 25, as well as their families.
Can I ask for help if my child does not want to go?
Yes. The family can be seen even if the young person does not attend treatment. The situation is assessed and you are given practical guidelines for what to do at home.
How do I know if my child is using drugs?
There is no single sign. Sudden changes in performance, mood, friends, sleep or spending, especially if they happen together, call for a calm conversation and, if they persist, a professional consultation.
What should I do if I find drugs in their room?
Stay calm and find a quiet moment to talk, without interrogating them. Listen to their side of the story, express your concern and agree on limits together. If you are not sure how to handle it, an advice appointment can help.
Does trying a drug mean having an addiction?
Not necessarily. There is a difference between use, misuse and addiction, and a professional can assess where things stand. Even so, in adolescence any drug use carries risks and deserves attention.