The first thing to realise that addiction is an ILLNESS. I should know, I spent this September in rehab. Knowledge is one thing but WAS a Pharmacist until my problems. I am an alcoholic..always will be so I dont drink. Its a disease that will always be there.
Some places to contact first of all www.addaction.org.uk www.direct.gov.uk/en/YoungPeople/.../DG_10030639, www.hazelden.org/web/public/alcohol_drug_rehab_youth.page
www.uk-rehab.com
www.nhs.uk/Livewell/addiction
www.swanswell
I have to bear in mind that many many young people drink and experiment with dope and drugs etc...most grow out of it...but for some it becomes a never ending addiction.
As an addiction, nothing else will matter to him apart from his drug of choice. If he can be persuaded to take a drug/alcohol test...It will show the extent and damage if any...have a word and his GP can arrange that. If he denies he is an addict..this is the chance for him to prove it.
I share your concern and have worked with many addicts before as a Pharmacist. What is important is to get the facts. Moralising wont do much good to a teenage addict..its something they have to realise for themselves. As you mentioned you are from quite a devout family, so perhaps it is a case of several pints and occasional joint he feels is nothing ? according to him.... If not then help is out there. Punishments wont work with an addict. If you can persuade him to have a confidential meeting and testing with a drug worker, they will show him the reality.
Rewards and Sanctions do not matter to an addict unless he/she will get their drug of choice.
A lot of addicts will take drugs to escape from reality. Addictive behaviour is also not only drugs but to other things. Does he steal ££ to satisfy his urge ?
I wish you the best so DONT WASTE £££ on private councillors...there are many well trained professionals out there....Get him to agree to a blood and liver enzyme test. He cant hide anything and you will know if any damage or addiction is there. TALK WITH HIM TOGETHER WITH HIS GP is the most basic start.
REMEMBER IT IS AN ILLNESS NOT MORAL DECAY ;-(
