I'll talk to a doctor, but I am afraid they will tell my parents everything. Can I prevent that?

There are privacy laws that prevent your doctor from telling your parents everything. They can’t even tell law enforcement about your drug use, in case that worries you. But your parents might ask you to sign a permission form, so your doctor can discuss your issues with them. If you feel your parents are truly trying to help you, you should consider signing the form, because having accurate information will help them find the right care and treatment for you. For more information on how private medical information is protected by law, read the HHS information on Health Information Privacy (HIPAA).

There is one exception to this rule: Doctors can speak to parents and some officials if they think you are in danger of hurting yourself or others.

If you feel you are being abused by your parents or caretakers, you should discuss it with your doctor or contact a school counselor.  If you are being abused, you can call the National Child Abuse Hotline for help at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453).

What will the doctor ask me?

The doctor will ask you a series of questions about your use of alcohol and drugs and other risky behaviors like driving under the influence or riding with other people who have been using drugs or alcohol. Your doctor can help you the best if you tell the truth. The doctor might also give a urine and/or blood test.  This will provide important information about your drug use and how it is affecting your health.

If your goal is to truly get better and get your old life back, you should cooperate with your doctor. If you think problems at home are only making it harder to stay clean, share that information with your doctor. If he or she recommends counseling or treatment, you should give it a try. There is a whole network of trained adults out there who want to help you.

What is treatment like?

Treatment for drug problems is tailored to each patient's unique drug abuse patterns and other medical, psychiatric, and social problems.

Some treatment centers offer outpatient treatment programs, which would allow you to stay in school, at least part time.  Some teens and young adults, though, do better in inpatient (residential) treatment, where you stay overnight for a period of time. An addiction specialist can advise you about your best options.

NIDA has created an online publication outlining the best treatment principles for your age group. You might want to have this these materials handy when you talk to treatment centers, to help you ask the right questions.

courtesy of NIDA