How well do you know your teenager? When was the last time you had a heart-to-heart conversation about his challenges, hopes, and fears? Would you know if your child was experimenting with drugs or alcohol or even struggling with a substance abuse problem?

Because adolescence is a critical period of development, experimenting with alcohol or drugs during the teenage years can contribute to an increased potential for substance abuse later on in life. And, substance abuse in young people is also linked to a variety of other problems, including delayed social or academic development.

The good news for parents is that simply talking about the issue is one of the best ways to prevent it.

“Merely talking with your child about substance abuse can greatly decrease the likelihood of problems,” says Dr. Bob Ball, Vice President of Programs at the Idaho Youth Ranch. “It doesn’t have to be difficult or complicated.”

Positive reinforcement can make a big difference. If you’re a parent, take time to check in with your teenager. Ask how they’re feeling, what challenges they’re facing, and really listen to their answers. Give kudos and encouragement for making good decisions. Make sure they understand what your rules are and what the consequences for breaking those rules are.  Let your child know you appreciate and support them.

If you can’t reach your child or you suspect they might already be using, expert help is available. Anchor House, a program of the Idaho Youth Ranch, offers residential treatment for boys ages 13-18 who are struggling to overcome drug and alcohol abuse.  To learn more, contact us!

The Rewards of Not Giving Up

Teenage drug abuse is a daunting obstacle to overcome. Getting to the other side takes personal courage along with solid support from the caring adults who intervene to help. That's why when a boy’s life goes from perilous to promising, it’s cause for celebration. Not only for him but also for family, friends, teachers, community, and for some boys, their probation officer.

Greg Orlando, Program Director at Anchor House, recently received this lovely email after one young man’s graduation from the program:

Hi Greg,

 I just wanted to send a thank you to you and your staff for all your work with Jimmy*. Sorry I couldn’t hold it together yesterday.  As you know he has been a roller coaster ride for the last two years and a lot of investment and time has been put into keeping him alive.  I hate to say it but never thought I would have been sitting in that room watching him get his coin.  I have seen such growth in him and really felt the support your team has shown him over the past two months.  To see him reunited with his grandparents and aunt was priceless.  I appreciate that you all did not give up on him and trusted me that I wasn’t insane by sending him your way.  I am so grateful for your team and will continue to send clients your way.  Thanks again for all you do and feel free to share this email with your team.  On to the next, one kid at a time.

 Angie Reed
Kootenai County Juvenile Probation

When I emailed Angie to ask if we could share her message with our donors, she didn't hesitate to respond, “Absolutely share it. I also want to add that I appreciate the continued support even since Jimmy has been out of Anchor House.”

Here’s to Angie, the Anchor House staff, and all the other dedicated, caring professionals who don’t give up, even when believing isn't easy.

*Note: "Jimmy" is not the client’s real name. We’ve changed it here to protect his privacy.

Anchor House Helps Loving Parents Get Their Son Back

Jacob came from a well-off family with no history of trauma or neglect. But drug addiction does not discriminate—it can happen to any family. In 8th grade, he started experimenting with street drugs and soon spiraled into full-blown dependency on oxycodone. Jacob’s parents didn’t realize how bad it was until he got caught stealing.

They tried counseling and outpatient treatment, but even though Jacob loved his family and did not want to hurt them, he couldn’t stop himself from using. When all other efforts had failed, his probation officer and counselor recommended Anchor House.

Once admitted, it became obvious that Jacob was struggling with severe depression along with his drug issues. He had dramatic mood swings and was even on suicide watch several times. During his stay at Anchor House, Jacob and his family also went to IYR’s Family Counseling program, and family trust and communication were restored by the time he completed services and left Anchor House clean and sober.

When Jacob’s mom came to pick him up, he had a hard time saying good-bye to the people who had become so important to him. Before driving away, his mother left us this note: “Thank you for not giving up and for saving my son’s life.”

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