When it comes to teens falling into the grips of addiction, sometimes despite a parent’s best efforts, it can happen to anyone. Addiction is a disease that can be passed on through genetics. Although this doesn’t mean it will happen to someone genetically inclined towards addiction. There are ways that you can discourage your child from falling into the grips of this totally controlling condition.
Besides the most important tactic of all, which is unconditional love, there are a few other measures that can be taken to encourage your child to steer clear of the slippery slope which is drug experimentation. Take a look at some of the best ways that you can steer your teen away from addiction and out of rehab.
Be Honest With Them
Trying to shelter your children from drugs and alcohol as if it doesn’t exist is a disastrous way to handle its presence. If they come across substances themselves having never been told of their dangers, then how are they going to know?
One of the best ways to prepare your kids for resisting temptation is to be completely honest with them. Instead of putting a blind eye to their existence, explain why people take drugs for their euphoric effects yet how simultaneously they completely damage your body’s performance leading to either addiction or in some cases death.
Many parents choose, to be honest about their own personal experiences with experimentation. This doesn’t mean that it’s the best way for you to go about it with your children. Talk with your partner and decide what you feel most comfortable with.
Spend Quality Time Together
Studies show that families that spend plenty of quality time together are less likely to fall into addiction, abuse, or depression. Spending time together can be anything from eating family meals, to watching a show together, to taking a walk and simply being in each other’s company.
People who are surrounded by love and support are much less likely to search for fulfillment in substances since they are getting their emotional needs met at home.
Show Alternative Forms of Entertainment
Many teens report the use of substances because they are simply bored. The teen years can be extremely grueling as far as hormonal changes, social challenges, and school work which is gearing them up for college. With the pressures of being adult looming just ahead of them, they can fall subject to wanting to escape.
Try showing your kids that plenty of activities can be thrilling and stress relieving. Why not show them hiking or rock climbing? Perhaps you’ve never even tried these things yourself.
By showing your teens alternative forms of entertainment you can also dip your feet in some activities that you may have never even considered doing before now!
