When an adolescent starts doing drugs before the age of 21 years. He is seven times more likely to become a drug addict. In many counties – where drinking is legal, the drinking age is 21 years or older. Therefore, during the teen years, it is the responsibility of the parents to prevent their children from using drugs and alcohol. It can be a difficult task, considering the glamour that is attached to drugs. The mass media, even though, does not support drug or alcohol addiction. Yet, it portrays them in a way that seems very attractive to the youth. It can make them think as if drugs are not that bad.
In some cases, juveniles even linked drug use with a certain level of popularity. These beliefs can push a teenager towards drugs. It can then result in drug addiction. When the juvenile is introduced to drugs at an early age, there is a greater chance of drug abuse. But don’t worry. There are several ways by which you can make sure that your kid does not fall victim to drug and alcohol addiction. Some of them have been discussed below.
- Consult a Professional
Often, parents do not realize their child is already using drugs. And when they do find out about it, most of the time, parents will start blaming themselves. It can often worsen the situation. The best way out is to seek help from a professional in such a situation. You can search for a professional around your area. For instance, if you live in Florida, in that case, you can consult Delphi Behavioral Health Group for various rehab and treatment programs. While seeking help from a professional is nothing to be ashamed of, you may also take several steps on your own.
- Talk and More Importantly Listen
It is not easy to discuss drug and alcohol abuse with your child. However, every problem can be solved. You may discuss drug and alcohol addiction with your child as early as possible and try to be their primary source of knowledge. It will prevent an outsider from taking advantage of their lack of information in this area.
If your child is already using drugs or alcohol and you think they might be turning into an addict. You can still talk things out with them. Ask them questions like:
- When did you first use a drug?
- What were the reasons behind this? (motivators and demotivators both)
These and similar questions will help you in understanding the problems your child is facing. You can keep a conversational tone. Try building trust, and focus more on listening to your child.
- Motivate Them to Quit
You need to motivate your child to minimize and ultimately stop drug and alcohol use. Every child has a dream career or college. Try discussing the implications of drug and alcohol use on their future. Be practical and realistic. Instead of scolding, or grounding, tell them why drug addiction is bad for them. Discuss with them why as a parent or guardian, you disapprove of it. Help them see their purpose in life and that drugs will not achieve that life goal. It will benefit them in realizing the side effects of drug use.
- Help Them in Resistance
Once you believe you have motivated them to quit. Your next step may be helping them in the process. For example, if your teenager says that he started doing drugs because his friends insisted. You need to assist him in overcoming peer pressure. With the help of each other, you can both come up with excuses to turn down drug and alcohol offers. It will develop a sense of comfort in your child. He will know that he is not alone in this fight.
- Share Your Mistakes
No human is perfect or free from error. Often parents want their children to be picture perfect. For this, they often share their success stories but never their failures. It can make the child feel weak and flawed. To make sure your child does not feel worthless, you may share your mistakes with them. You can share the story of a failed test or a job interview that did not go well. If you have had an experience of drug abuse, please share that with your child. Never shy away from your child.
- Keep a Close Watch
You may act like a friend when discussing and solving drug use with your child. However, it does not mean that you take the matter lightly. Keep a close watch, and do not let anything distract you. You have to be aware of your child’s activities, his surroundings, his peers, etc. You may also establish rules to overcome this challenge. When there is any rule-breaking, you may also use penalties as a tool for re-enforcement. It will establish boundaries. You will also make your teenager understand that there will be consequences for his actions.
Conclusion
Being a parent or guardian is not an easy job. There will be many things that will make you lose hope. Teenage substance abuse is one such thing. The key is to be there for your child. Talk to your kid and let them know that drug addiction is real. Assure your child that he is not alone in this struggle and that you stand with him every step of the way. Be their friend and assist them in this process. Despite all these measures, do not feel ashamed to ask for help from a professional counselor.