Parenting a child through substance abuse is one of the most difficult experiences imaginable; something none of us could have fathomed when our kids were young. Yet the statistics on teens and substance abuse is startling. The percentage of teens vaping (nicotine or marijuana) has increased in recent years, and many parents are either totally unaware or don’t realize the extent of the problem. 

Today’s guest, Richard Capriola, spent years working as an addiction counselor at the Menninger Clinic in Houston Texas, and has now written the helpful guide, The Addicted Child: A Parent’s Guide to Adolescent Substance Abuse. This book educates parents on everything from the types of drugs kids are abusing and what drug use does to the adolescent brain, to the kinds of treatment available for addiction. There is also a great resource list in the book for parents to find the help and support they need. In this interview we chat about the content of the book, and Richard shares hopeful stories from families who have overcome addiction to find a brighter future.

We are all impacted by substance abuse to some extent, and I think you’ll find this an informative and encouraging conversation!  Please share with friends as none of us know who might need this information.

www.monicaswanson.com/episode-145

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