Substance Abuse

Introduction

Action Signs*

Teens use alcohol and other drugs for many reasons, including curiosity, because it feels good, to reduce stress, to feel grown up or to fit in. It is difficult to know which teens will experiment and stop and which ones will develop serious problems. Teenagers at risk for developing serious alcohol and drug problems include those:

  • with a family history of substance abuse;
  • who are depressed;
  • who have low self-esteem; and
  • who feel like they don't fit in or are out of the mainstream.


* The Action Signs Project Peter Jensen, MD et al, REACH Institute

Clinical Guidelines:

AACAP Practice Parameter for the Assessment and Treatment of Children and Adolescents with Substance Abuse Disorders - June 2004

AAP Policy - Tobacco, Alcohol, and Other Drugs: The Role of the Pediatrician in Prevention, Identification, and Management of Substance Abuse - March 2005

Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) Clinical Guides and Updates:

Preventing Alcohol and Other Drug Use by Pre-Teens - Pediatric Clinician Update (PDF) or Word format

Opiod Analgesics and Stimulant Medications: A Clinicians Guide to Prevent Misuse ( PDF) or Word format



Screening for Substance Abuse

CRAFFT- An acronym for: Car, Relax, Alone, Forget, Friends, Trouble


Parent information and handouts

Massachusetts Substance Abuse Information and Education Helpline 1-800-327-5050

The Massachusetts Substance Abuse Information and Education Helpline provides free and confidential information and referrals for alcohol and other drug abuse problems and related concerns. The Helpline is committed to linking consumers with comprehensive, accurate, and current information about treatment and prevention services throughout Massachusetts. Services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Language interpreters are always available. Click here to link to the web site.

AACAP Facts for Families: Substance Abuse Treatment For Children And Adolescents: Questions To Ask