Confronting your child about drug use has always been difficult. Still, it becomes even more challenging when you suspect that they are using substances like alcohol and marijuana. We're here to give tips on how best to approach this sensitive topic so as not only to keep the peace in your family unit but also to get honest answers from them.
It can be a jarring and frightening time if you find someone close (especially children) doing drugs; however, there's no need for alarm because we have preparedness plans that might help make things less stressful!
How can I help my son stay off drugs?
Consider other strategies to prevent teen drug abuse:
• Know your teen's activities. Pay attention to your teen's whereabouts
• Establish rules and consequences
• Know your teen's friends
• Keep track of prescription drugs
• Provide support
• Set a good example
How do I talk to my daughter about her drinking?
• Pick the moment for a conversation. It's crucial to pick the right time and place to talk to someone about their drinking
• Conversation starters
• Blame and accusations don't help
• Don't give mixed messages
• Be prepared for push back
• Don't push the issue
• Bring it up again
Understanding the risks of substance use as a teen or young adult is important in helping your child overcome their addiction. Substance damage can cause learning difficulties, health problems, and even permanent disability if left untreated for too long!
There are many reasons why kids choose substances over other forms of self-expression such as extreme sports etc., but there's also research showing what happens when those who start alcohol early on the go off at 15 years old.
Start the conversation
The conversation with your child might be uncomfortable, but it's crucial for their future. Make sure you are prepared and have a plan before meeting them so that the outcome will turn out well despite any anger or upset feelings they may show at first glance.
You should also consider what kind of rehab facility would best suit him/her--if anything seems too good to be true, then there probably is!
How many kids are addicted to drugs?
The number of teenagers who abuse tranquilizers and hallucinations has reached alarming levels. 788,000 12- to 17-year-olds in this age group meet the criteria for Illicit Drug Use Disorder (IDUD). This is nearly twice as likely as they are to suffer from AUDs!
How do you know if your child has an addictive personality?
Addiction typically begins as a symptom, not a cause, of personal and social maladjustment. Addiction is a complex process. Many people gamble, drink, and take drugs without becoming addicted. Addiction should always be viewed in a person's developmental history. It's most often the result of a biological or behavioral predisposition. For example, many studies show that depressed or impulsive people are more likely to drink and take drugs. But addictive tendencies don't mean a child will inevitably become an addict. Parental understanding of the mechanics of addiction is also a powerful preventive tool. Families can help protect from later drug abuse when there is:
• a strong bond between children and parents
• parental involvement in the child's life; and
• clear limits and consistent enforcement of discipline.
It's no secret that many teens are struggling with addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports 1 out of every 4 18-20 year olds have tried an illegal drug in the past month. Even more shocking is how often this continues throughout their lives; projections show over 20 million Americans who meet the criteria for pursuing alcohol or mental health disorders sometime during their lifetime.
If you're trying to help someone close, contact us today! (610) 741-6567