RECOGNIZING THAT A teenager has a drug problem is not always easy. Teenagers are sometimes secretive about their own activities and the activities of friends. This makes it even harder to recognize a drug problem. Once the problem is out in the open, however, there are many options for treatment ranging from regular drug counseling to rehabilitation programs in specialized hospital units. The teen's level of involvement with drugs and his or her personality will determine the type of treatment needed. Some teenagers stop taking drugs as soon as their problem is discovered while others require intensive therapy.

The four stages of drug abuse

The Office for Substance Abuse Prevention of the U.S. Public Health Service has identified four specific stages of drug use. Teenagers who occasionally use drugs in social situations are considered to...