Drug experimentation is common among teens. It is important that no parent ignores the possibility that their child may encounter a situation where they will have an opportunity to say yes or no to drugs. There are many different factors that affect whether or not someone will become addicted to drugs or alcohol. Teenagers still mentally developing and even experimenting can lead to a long term battle with addiction. If you are a parent, it is part of your responsibility to be knowledgeable about drugs and their affects, and be able to answer your children’s questions.
There are many different things you as a parent can do to help decrease the chance your child will be interested in experimenting with drugs. If you are looking for ways to get started remember to start small and you will be amazed how quickly your child will open up to you. Here are three different tried and tested ways to greatly decrease the chance that your teen will be a drug user.
Three things parents can do to keep kids off drugs
Hopefully, if you have teenagers, you have been setting a good example for them to follow. The attitude you present to your child about drugs and alcohol must match the actions you have exhibited. If you want your teen to respect your words, you have to back them up with actions. Also, simply saying all drugs are bad does not constitute a conversation about drugs. Your child may have questions and you should be prepared to answer them. Do a little research and find out exactly what affects different kinds of drugs have on the body.
A teenager who feels like they have stability in their home life is less likely to experiment with illegal drugs. Many teens start using drugs and alcohol because they are looking for a way to fit in or be accepted. Take time to spend with your teen and make sure they know you support them. If they feel supported at home and have designated time to spend with you it will be easier for you to spot any changes in them that might indicate they are unhappy.
Finally, keep your teen busy. Teenagers who are involved in activities are often more focused and goal driven than those who are not. Boredom is the number one most sited reason by teens when asked why they tried drugs or alcohol the first time. It can be difficult for teens who are not interested in sports to find something to do so it is up to you to encourage them and help them find something they are good at. Volunteering can be a great way for a teen to stay busy and learn some responsibility all at the same time.
Find out more information or seek the professional help from the FCCR-VA.com the addiction recovery specialist. Be sure to check out the FCCR Blog.
