Substance abuse can be a challenging topic for parents, but it’s important to talk to your kids about drugs and alcohol to prevent harmful consequences for their health and safety. As kids navigate their adolescent years and are looking to explore new things, peer pressure, curiosity, and stress can lead them to experiment with drugs and alcohol. As a parent, understanding the risks, having open communication, and taking preventive steps can make all the difference.
Kids turn to drugs and alcohol for various reasons, including stress and anxiety, which could result from academic pressures, conflicts with family or friends, and other life challenges. Peer pressure and watching friends use drugs and alcohol can also encourage them. Other contributing factors are curiosity and seeing drugs and alcohol glamorized in movies, TV shows, social media, and music.
Research shows that establishing clear boundaries and providing parental support reduces the risk of teens turning to substance use. Start by creating a safe environment that encourages your teen to discuss their struggles and issues. This will give you the opportunity to provide them guidance on developing healthy coping mechanisms to handle stress and regulate their emotions. By showing compassion and understanding, you can help make your child feel they have an adult to turn to for support. While it’s essential to regularly talk to your kids about substance use, you’ll want to avoid lectures and instead have an open conversation with your kids that allows them to share their thoughts. Be clear, however, of your expectations and set boundaries for their health and safety.
Kids are more likely to follow your guidance if you emphasize the risks and dangers of substance use. Many teens believe marijuana is harmless, especially as it’s becoming legal in more states. However, marijuana can impair memory, judgment, and motor skills. The risk is higher in children and adolescents as their brains are developing. Edible marijuana products are even more dangerous since their effects can take longer to appear and lead to users consuming more than they may have intended. A high dose of marijuana can cause severe intoxication, panic attacks, and hospitalization.
Additionally, smoking tobacco can damage the lungs and increase the risk of cancer, gum disease, and tooth decay. Alcohol is also dangerous for kids and teens whose brains are not fully developed yet. It can cause memory issues and risky behaviors and lead to long-term problems such as liver damage, heart disease, and potentially cancer. Make sure your kids understand the consequences of using these substances so that they can make healthy choices.
Help your teens resist peer pressure by instilling self-confidence in them and empowering them to say no. Teach them firm ways of expressing disinterest and share strategies for redirecting the conversation. For example, they could say, “No, I don’t drink,” and then change the subject.
If you suspect or discover that your child is using drugs or alcohol or smoking tobacco, it’s important to approach the situation with concern instead of anger. Start the conversation in a non-judgmental way to understand why they’re using substances. You can then work with them to develop solutions to get them to stop their use. In some cases, professional intervention might be necessary, especially if your child has an addiction or a substance abuse problem. An effective drug treatment program will have a psychiatrist or a clinical psychologist with expertise in associated medical, emotional, or behavioral issues, family therapy services, peer support groups guided by a professional facilitator, and an abstinence-only policy. If the center treats both minors and adults, the adolescent unit should be kept separate.
For further guidance on choosing the right drug treatment program or any concerns related to substance abuse, please call our office. Our pediatrician is here to help your family and provide the resources you need.
