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You’re Not Alone—We’re Here to Help
If your teen is facing challenges with substance use, we’re here to support you. This guide offers trusted information, signs to look for, treatment options, and steps you can take to help your child heal and thrive.
Local & Statewide Resources:
🔗 Forward Together Colorado
📞 SAMHSA’s 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
RECOGNIZING THE PROBLEM.
01.
Behavior & Mood Changes
Watch for mood swings, irritability,
or withdrawal from family and usual activities.
02.
School & Social Shifts
Declining grades, new peer groups, or missing school may signal something deeper.
03.
Physical & Use Patterns
Look for cravings, spending more time using substances, or signs of withdrawal.
Teen substance use often starts with curiosity, peer pressure, or a need
to cope with stress or trauma.
Parents and caregivers play a
critical role in early identification
and intervention. Watch for:
Understanding
Teen
Substance
Use
“We’re expanding substance use prevention and harm reduction services to reach youth and families across Arapahoe County—delivering education, support, and recovery pathways that uplift the whole community.”
— Taylor Roberts, Community Health Promotion Supervisor,
Arapahoe County Public Health
Risk & Protective Factors
What Increases or Lowers the Risk?
Understanding why some teens are more vulnerable to substance use can help guide prevention and support.
Youth with a family history of drug or alcohol use are more likely to adopt similar behaviors.
Experiencing trauma, neglect, or abuse increases vulnerability to substance
use as a coping mechanism.
Lack of academic engagement
or achievement can lead to low
self-esteem and risky choices.
Spending time with peers who use substances increases the chances of experimentation and pressure.
Depression, anxiety, or other mental
health issues often co-occur with or
contribute to substance misuse.
Strong emotional bonds with caregivers help youth feel secure and reduce the need to seek escape through substances.
Knowing where your teen is, who they're
with, and having open conversations
builds trust and accountability.
Feeling connected to school through academics, activities, or relationships helps build purpose and resilience.
Friends who model healthy choices can reinforce positive behaviors and reduce pressure to use substances.
Setting consistent rules and discussing values around substance use gives teens a stable framework for decision-making.
Getting Help
What to Do and Where to Start
If you’re concerned about your child’s substance use, the first step is a professional assessment. This helps determine the severity of the issue and the appropriate level of care.
Levels of Care
(ASAM Criteria):
-
0.5 Early Intervention
-
1 Outpatient Services
-
2 Intensive Outpatient (IOP)
-
3 Residential/Inpatient Care
-
4 Medically Managed Inpatient Care
Treatment can be covered by insurance, Medicaid, or sliding scale fees. Some programs offer counseling, education, medication-assisted treatment, or full-time residential support.
How to Choose a Provider:
Before selecting a treatment program, ask: