Drug and alcohol addiction and abuse. Recognition. Prevention. Treatment
20/20 Parenting. Recognizing and mitigating early vulnerabilities and risk factors.
Drugs & Alcohol
Dealing with Adolescent Substance Abuse
If your teen is already doing drugs or alcohol, here are some suggestions:
1. Steer Clear from Punishments –
Many parents, counselors and other experts speak of a 'zero tolerance' policy and recommend firm punishment. As stated above, if the punishment you're dishing out is not directly related to the misbehavior, you will only be teaching your teen to not get caught next time. You are also not giving them an opportunity to really learn from their experiences. I recently counseled a 16-year-old who attends weekly parties where lots of drugs are present. She simply stated, “When my mom comes down harsh on me, I just want to do it more.”
2. Get Outside Help If Your Teen is Addicted –
Drug addiction is too big a problem to deal with alone—period! Learn the signs and act quickly. When it comes to breaking an addiction, constant and professional supervision is needed. Contact drug and alcohol rehab centers in your area and get help.
3. Be Open to Hearing the Tough Stuff –
Strive for open and respectful communication between you and your teen. Listen to them and listen well. What is it that they are really needing? If you jump all over your teen when they tell you they would like to know what it’s like to be drunk, find out more. The more you can hear, the more they will tell—and the better chance you have of keeping them safe.
4. Create a Solid Community –
The more extended family members and friends that your teen feels comfortable sharing with, the better! Develop this network and find ways to keep your teen involved in positive and meaningful ways. Encourage and look for ways your teen can make positive contributions to your family, your religious organization, your community, etc.
Experimentation with drugs and alcohol are the most difficult behaviors in adolescents that parents will face—whether they want to or not. There are no quick and simple answers.
Although you may want to lock your teen up until they make it safely to age 21, this solution isn't practical or feasible. Improve your chances of keeping your teen safe by keeping the communication lines open, having clearly defined rules, and remaining kind—but firm.
©2005 Kelly Nault
Kelly Nault is the author of "When You Are About To Go Off The Deep End, Don't take Your Kids With You".
