Who is a paediatric narcologist?
A narcologist is a specialist who works with people at risk of becoming addicted to:
- Alcohol;
- Drugs;
- Tobacco;
- Gambling;
- Digital environments such as video games, social networks and the Internet are used.
Paediatric narcologists are trained to identify the development of addictions in children and adolescents. They are experts in the psychological characteristics of children and adolescents and in how they differ from adults, and have the knowledge and skills to help young people recognise and cope with addiction problems.
A paediatric narcologist can help a child or adolescent develop strategies to overcome addiction. This includes developing an action plan that addresses individual characteristics and the current situation. The doctor may recommend therapy, medication, or special programmes, such as camps for people with addiction or group therapy.
When should you see a narcologist?
Some signs that may indicate the use of addictive substances:
External changes:
- Indifference to one's appearance;
- Lack of reaction to light or changes in pupil response;
- Constant feeling of fatigue;
- Changes in complexion and skin condition;
- Traces of injections in the crook of the elbow and other places;
- Active use of perfume to mask odours, etc.
Behavioural changes:
- Problems at school, decline in academic performance;
- Changes in interests and social circle;
- Sudden mood swings, bouts of unprovoked aggression;
- Secretiveness, frequent absence from home;
- Change in attitude towards family;
- Disappearance of personal belongings, borrowing money, theft, etc.
The very beginning of the treatment process is the realisation that the use of substances or processes that cause addiction has led to negative consequences for physical, mental and social health. A paediatric psychiatrist is ready to help with this process, seeking the best approach for each case.
Special attention is paid to digital addiction, an increasingly common problem among teenagers. This can include addiction to video games, social media, browsing the internet, or even using a mobile phone. Addiction specialists work with children and teenagers to help them understand how these addictions affect their lives and how they can overcome them. This type of addiction includes:
- Social media addiction: Excessive and uncontrolled use of social media that is detrimental to physical, mental and social health.
- Video game addiction: Compulsive video gaming that negatively affects daily life, studies, work and personal relationships.
- Internet addiction: An uncontrollable urge to use the Internet, which may include compulsive checking of news, browsing web pages, or online gambling;
- Mobile phone addiction: Excessive and uncontrolled use of a mobile phone that negatively affects a person's life and health.
FORTEMED's paediatric narcologist offers various methods of diagnosis and treatment:
- Rapid urine drug tests: This is a quick and effective way to determine whether a child shows signs of drug use (anonymously). The test detects the presence of drugs in urine and can be the first step in diagnosing addiction.
- Prescription of medication: In the treatment of addiction, it is important to provide the right medication to help the teenager feel better, reduce drug cravings and normalise their daily routine;
- Referral for additional tests: Addiction can affect a child's health in different ways. It is therefore important to carry out additional medical tests to check the child's general health and assess the impact of addiction.
- Referral to other specialists: Addiction problems can be linked to other psychological or social problems and have a negative impact on overall health.
Addiction can rob a child of their future by interfering with normal development, hindering education and social life, and limiting potential career opportunities. Without support, addiction can lead to long-term health problems and social isolation.
FORTEMED narcologist
The FORTEMED medical centre employs an experienced narcologist who uses her skills and knowledge to help young people overcome addiction. She understands that every child is unique and requires an individual approach.
Maija Jēkabsone
narcologist, pediatric narcologist
Experienced addiction specialist who helps adults and children overcome various types of dependencies. She provides preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic support for individuals struggling with alcohol, drug, gambling, and digital addictions, offering a personalized approach to reduce harm and promote full recovery.
Preventive visit to a narcologist
Even if your child is not addicted to dangerous substances or does not suffer from digital addiction, a preventive visit to a narcologist is necessary to help prevent potential addiction problems.
In today's society, where digital addiction, alcohol and drug use are becoming increasingly common, especially among the younger generation, a preventive visit to a narcologist can be an important step in maintaining and improving the health and well-being of a child or teenager.
A narcologist will be able to provide the necessary information about the consequences and risks of addiction and help identify and eliminate early signs of addiction.
Appointment with a paediatric narcologist at FORTEMED
If you or your child has concerns about possible addiction, do not delay your visit to a narcologist by making an appointment:
- Online, by clicking the red button below or next to the selected specialist;
- By phone – 23304440, and our customer service specialists will help you choose the most convenient time for your visit.
All our doctors speak English, thereby facilitating diagnosis and treatment.