What approach should a community health nurse take to address substance use disorders among adolescents?

Promoting family engagement in treatment is a vital approach for addressing substance use disorders among adolescents because it involves the entire support system of the young individual. Family dynamics play a significant role in the development and recovery from substance use issues. Engaging families in the treatment process can foster healthier communication, reinforce positive behaviors, and create a supportive environment that encourages the adolescent to commit to their recovery.

Involving families helps in understanding the underlying issues contributing to substance use, and it enhances the likelihood of sustained recovery by aligning treatment goals with family dynamics. Family engagement can also facilitate parental education, which allows family members to recognize signs of substance use and understand how to provide the necessary support. Additionally, strong family involvement can improve adherence to treatment and reduce the risk of relapse, making it a holistic and effective strategy in community health nursing practices.

While the other approaches might have their merits in specific contexts, they lack the comprehensive nature of addressing the familial aspect of substance use disorders in adolescents. Disciplinary measures and strict legal consequences may not adequately address the root causes or provide long-term solutions, whereas focusing solely on individual therapy can overlook the significant influence that family relationships have on adolescent development and recovery.