How to Talk to Your Kids about Drugs and Alcohol

How to Talk to Your Kids about Drugs and Alcohol

By: Brittany Ford

The “ignore it and it will go away” mentality does not apply to youth substance abuse. In fact, research shows that the earlier parents begin to talk with their children about drugs and alcohol, the less likely they are to struggle with addiction issues. Yet, many parents find themselves at a loss for how to pose such a subject.

Is there a right way to talk to your child about substance abuse, and how early is too early?

It is very important that children feel comfortable talking to parents about sensitive issues, such as use the abuse of drugs and alcohol. Too often, parents attempt to protect children from the realities of such issues through avoidance, unintentionally putting their children at greater risk of unsafe behaviors and drug experimentation. If children do not receive information about drugs and alcohol from their parents, they will seek information from other sources. Depending on which sources the information is received from, this alternative could be severely detrimental.

The Earlier the Better

Although it may seem pre-mature, research shows that parents should begin talking to their children about the dangers of substance abuse as early as preschool age. Conversations do not have to be formal and “scary”. In fact, they should be casual and worked into everyday occurrences. For example, if your child is prescribed an antibiotic or another medication, use the opportunity to explain the importance of following doctor’s orders carefully when taking  medication, and only taking medication that is “prescribed”. Other “teachable moments”, such as commercials on television about use of alcohol or drugs, should be taken advantage of. Keep in mind that children at this developmental level are especially impressionable and attentive to what they are told. After all, young children are referred to as “sponges” for a reason-they seek to find answers to inquiries and understand the world around them.

Keep the Talking Consistent

Don’t make the mistake of talking about drugs once or twice with your child and failing to revisit the topic. As your child gets older, keep conversations flowing and encourage your child to contribute. Ask your child what he or she thinks about drugs and alcohol, if his/her friends has experimented with such substances, etc.  Keep in mind that the more comfortable your child feels talking with you about such sensitive  topics; the more likely he/she will come to you when confronted with pressures and temptations. Always remember that as a parent;  you hold great power in determining whether or not your child will be “drug free”. Even if your child shrugs off your voice and acts as if he/she is embarrassed by you talking to him or her about a sensitive topic, odds are they are still listening.  Remember that the power of the “conscious” is powerful, and it is often your voice they hear when determining whether something is right or wrong.

Okay….But What Exactly Do I Say?

Be honest and direct when talking about drugs and alcohol with your child. When talking with pre-teens and teenagers, do not hesitate to talk about the legal ramifications of substance abuse. Find stories about individuals who have suffered from addiction. Use discretion on details based on your child’s maturity level, but do not “sugar coat” the facts. It is important for your child to understand the realities and consequences  of poor choices. Let them know that substance abuse ruins lives.

 Younger children and pre-teens may benefit from “role playing”. Put on “skits” by assigning your kids/kid’s friends parts and developing a scrip based on scenarios when they may be confronted with substance abuse or drug experimentation . You may choose to tape the “skits” using a phone, IPAD or another device to make it more engaging-your child can watch his/her work when done.

Keep in mind that children respond best to real-world stories that they can relate to, as most young people suffer from the “it wont happen to me” and the misconception that they are invincible. Pre-teens/ teens may benefit from a  Google search  for articles about teens affected by substance abuse. Focus on scenarios that you think your child may identify with. For example, if your child is a soccer player, you may find a story about a soccer player who suffered from addiction.

“Help! My Child or a Child I Know Is Suffering From a Problem with Drugs or Alcohol!”

Unfortunately, even the best parents may find that their child is suffering from issues with substance abuse, and may be plagued with addiction. Such realities are frightening for parents and may be associated with such emotions as fear , guilt and shame. At Self-empowerment, NH LLC, we are here to tell you to stop blaming yourself and stop living in fear for your child’s well-being. Seek addiction counseling and/or family counseling today. Lori Magoon, an MLADC, has helped many individuals whom suffer from addiction and offers a number of different services for both families and individuals.

For more information, contact Lori at (603)470-6938 or selfempowermentnh@gmail.com.

You can also visit our website at selfempowermentnh.com.

Open to the door to self empowerment. 

Heroin Robs Us of Philip Seymour Hoffman: The Frightening Reality of Substance Abuse and Overdose

Heroin Robs Us of Philip Seymour Hoffman: The Frightening Reality

of Substance Abuse and Overdose

On February 2, 2014, Hollywood and Broadway lost an exceptionally talented actor, Philiph Seymour Hoffman, to an overdose on the drug Heroin. Hoffman was highly respected, having won the Academy Award for Best Actor in the 2005 biographical film Capote, nominated three times for Best Supporting Actor and having received three Tony Award nominations for his work in theater. One might ask; how could such a talented, successful and obviously intelligent individual suffer such a death from a drug as publicly detrimental as Heroin? However, Hoffman is just one example of how even the most successful and highly-respected individuals are affected by the down-ward spiral of Heroin addiction.

In a 2011 interview with “60 Minutes”, Philip Seymour Hoffman expressed that he had struggled with substance abuse and drug and alcohol addiction in the past, but had fought this addiction. However, the power of addiction overcame Hoffman. By the beginning of 2014, Hoffman was back to his old habits. He was found unresponsive on February 2, 2014 and the cause of death was ruled to be Heroin overdose.

As an MLADC, it is difficult to come to terms with the fact that Hoffman could have been saved. Had he received adequate care and support, he may still be on the big screen today. It is too late for Hoffman. However, when it comes to others whom are suffering from Heroin addiction, (and there are many), it is not too late.

Years ago, before having entered the field of Substance Abuse Counseling, I did not think Heroin was common. I certainly did not think of Heroin as having a large role in the lives of many individuals within the state of New Hampshire. However, I now recognize the prevalence of this drug and the power it holds over individuals whom struggle with addiction.

Often, addiction to Heroin begins with the use of pain-killers or other Opiates. Since Opiates are highly addictive and very expensive, addicted individuals in “needing to get their fix” turn to Heroin. The effects of Heroin are similar to that of pain-killers and other Opiates at a significantly lower price. In other words, users do not often begin by injecting Heroin into their veins. Such methods are commonly taken after an individual’s body, mind and spirit are taken over by their drug of choice, often after having used the substance in pill form. The focus becomes getting their fix no matter the consequence.

Philip Seymour Hoffman is not the first celebrity to have passed away as a result of a drug overdose. Such individuals as Heath Ledger, Anna Nicole Smith, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis, Janis Joplin and Kurt Cobain were also noted as having deceased as a result of drug addiction. And as for “non-celebrities” whom have deceased as a result of a drug addiction? Millions.

Where Should You Turn if You are Suffering from Addiction?

 Self-Empowerment NH, LLC specializes in working with families suffering from substance abuse issues and has supported a number of individuals whom suffer from even the most severe of addictions. Through both individual counseling and family counseling; Selfempnh is here to serve as an empathetic, confidential and non-judgmental support system.

For more information about counseling and group services and/or presentations regarding Substance Abuse in Youth and in the Workplace, please contact Lori Magoon, MLADC, LCMHC at (603)470-6937 or selfempowermentnh@gmail.com.

You are not alone. Open the door to self-empowerment. Open the door to a better tomorrow.

Sources:

Ø  http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/05/showbiz/philip-seymour-hoffman-death/

Arizona Kindergarten Teacher Charged with Selling Drugs: How Addiction Effects all Populations of Society

Arizona Kindergarten Teacher Charged with Selling Drugs:

How Addiction Effects all Populations of Society

By: Lori Magoon, MLADC, LCMHC

A stereotypical drug addict is dirty, private and unsuccessful. He or she does not hold a profession as a fireman or police officer. Nor as a doctor or lawyer; and absolutely not as a school teacher working with small children.

 When the news of an Arizona kindergarten teacher charged with selling drugs was released, most were shocked. I, on the other-hand, an MLADC who has witnessed the devastating effects of addiction, was not. The December 6^th story of a teacher who resorted to drug sales as a means to fund her own drug habit was instantly categorized in my mind as yet another example of how addiction affects all populations of individuals. I have personally witnessed how professionals are non-exempt from the detriments associated with addiction. In reading the Union Leader article regarding the Arizona teacher’s news story; I recognized that this woman was the victim of a disease and had she been provided with proper care and support; her addiction may not have caused such an error in judgment. 

 Stereotypes associated with individuals whom suffer from drug addiction are largely inaccurate. In reality, any individual from any population, social class or career can be affected by drug addiction. Even the most well-respected, wealthy and/or educated individuals can become addicted to drugs or alcohol, and may find themselves making choices that they would never had made without the influence of mind-altering substances. As an MLADC, I work with remarkable, caring and talented individuals who have become victims of addiction and are in need of support.

The stereotypical American kindergarten teacher is warm, nurturing and trust-worthy. A prominent role model for young children; he/she makes good choices and sets a positive example for students. It is largely possible that this Arizona teacher modeled such qualities at one time, but began using mind-altering substances and lost sight of good judgment. Prescription drugs, (the particular drugs this teacher was charged with selling), are incredibly expensive, and it is common for individuals whom suffer from addiction to take such drastic measures as selling drugs to pay for their habit. In order to understand addiction, it is imperative to recognize that addiction is a disease. The brain chemistry of an individual who suffers from addiction is changed, and thus, the fruit of one’s addiction becomes the focus. Consequences and good judgment are compromised.

This Arizona kindergarten teacher’s story is just one example of how no population is exempt from the effects of drug addiction. As an MLADC, I have seen drug addiction affect all walks of life and am constantly confronted by the power and devastation associated with this disease. Prescription pill addiction in particular has become wildly popular, destroying lives and causing the deterioration of morals and good judgment.

We’re Here to Help!

At Self-empowerment NH, LLC, we take addiction issues personally. A counseling company located in Concord, NH; at Self-empowerment NH LLC, we understand how difficult addiction can be and have an extensive background in treating individuals suffering from the toughest of addictions, to include addiction to prescription pills. We recognize that addiction effects all populations and affirm that having an issue with addiction does not mean someone is a bad person. It makes that they are someone who needs help.

Lori Magoon is a Licensed Mental Health Clinician and a Master’s Level Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor. Lori’s effectiveness is based on providing a welcoming, supportive and non-judgmental environment for all clients; as well as use of innovative counseling strategies with scientifically proven effectiveness. Lori stresses that as long as the individual seeking treatment is invested in his/her recovery, recovery from even the toughest of addictions is possible. 

 Self-empowerment NH, LLC accepts health insurance and does offer a sliding scale for those who qualify. A variety of services are offered at our Concord location, some of which include; individual and group counseling, evaluations and presentations for parents, educators and both large and small employers in reference to signs and symptoms of substance abuse. 

To schedule an appointment or to attain more information, please contact Lori at selfempowermentnh.com or by phone at (603)470-6937. 

Source:

http://www.reviewjournal.com/news/arizona-police-kindergarten-teacher-sold-drugs-undercover-officer