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.
