Jan Ligon. Photo courtesy of Georgia State University where Ligon is an associate professor.

National Association of Social Workers member Jan Ligon, PhD, LCSW, became a specialist in drug addiction crisis services after taking care of his own son, who died at age 35 after taking heroin and cocaine.

Ligon is quoted extensively in this CNN article about signs parents can look for to tell their child is addicted to drugs. Drug addiction among young people is getting more attention in the news due to the arrest and sentencing of actress and teen idol Lindsay Lohan.

Lohan on July 6 was sentenced to 90 days in jail fo rmissing alcohol counseling services in violation of probation. The judge ordered her to sign up for an additional 90 days of drug and alcohol counseling after serving her term.

Social worker Jan Ligon offers more detailed advice on dealing with a loved with a drug or alcohol addiction on NASW’s “Help Starts Here” Web site. To read it, click here.