The second - peer related factor includes peer substance use, peer attitudes about substance use and vulnerability to peer pressure. The third - early childhood experiences includes early disruptive behavioral problems, especially aggressive behavior, poor academic performance and school failure, risk taking behavior and favorable attitudes about drug use. If a substance use problem is suspected, a gentle but direct inquiry should be made about the pattern of use and the effects of the use on the adolescent's psychosocial functioning. Evasion and deception should initially be expected. If denial continues and there is significant evidence to suspect use, then the referral to a professional substance abuse counselor to assess the adolescent is recommended.
Urine testing is valuable to confirm the recent use of drugs.
Treatment for adolescent substance abuse should match the severity of the problem. The more severe the use, the more likely the adolescent will be need inpatient treatment. However, for most adolescents with alcohol or drug problems, outpatient therapy will be beneficial to help them review how abuse impacts their lives and to set some positive goals. The goal of treatment is to achieve and continue abstinence from substance use. Tri-City Comprehensive Community Mental Health Center offers specialized outpatient adolescent substance abuse treatment called STAR, Starting To Achieve Recovery.