Drug Abuse Prevention

Addict, mother and doctor

Raising a child who never uses drugs or alcohol is challenging in today’s world. Some parents may not be overly concerned if their child drinks or smokes some cannabis. However, alcohol, cannabis and tobacco are just “starter” drugs for some people. In other words, their substance abuse does not stop there but progresses to harder drugs and finally, addiction.

Children seldom report drug abuse to their parents and will keep serious drug problems to themselves. It is up to parents to be observant and notice the signs that tell them that drugs or alcohol are involved. The Signs and Symptoms articles on this website will help sharpen your ability to observe problems.

Safety from the Destructive Effects of Addiction

The only real safety from addiction comes from abstinence. By becoming educated yourself on the problems created by drugs, you will be able to paint a clear picture for your children on how substance abuse can unwittingly slip into addiction.

Steering them clear of addiction takes more than just telling young people that drugs are bad. Each person rebuilding a life that was destroyed by addiction must learn anew to focus on goals and the development of the skills needed to achieve those goals. These same techniques work to help young people take an interest in life. Encourage young people to set goals that they really want to achieve and then further encourage them to take steady steps in that direction.

You might also suggest that they observe friends and associates who are abusing drugs or alcohol so they can note whether or not those people are achieving goals and living constructive lives.

Keeping the Vacuum Filled

The worst thing to do is fail to talk about the subject. Using what you do know to inform your children, letting them ask questions and encouraging them to be honest with you about drug use are all far better than just staying silent. If they report drug use, help them learn what problems or dangers are associated with that type of drug.

Your children are likely to encounter drug use at very young ages. According to the 2011 ESPAD Report, a survey of substance abuse among 15 and 16 year olds across Europe, more than half the young people surveyed had drunk alcohol in the prior month. Eighteen percent of all these students reported having abused an illicit drug. Some percentage of these young people will develop problems with substance abuse. A well-informed child has that measure of protection.

The goal of the Narconon Europe is to prevent substance abuse and rehabilitate those who lost the battle with addiction. You are welcome to any information on our website that will help you protect your children from harm: +45 70 60 60 03.


Reference Links:

http://www.espad.org/sites/espad.org/files/The_2011_ESPAD_Report_FULL_2012_10_29.pdf

AUTHOR
S

S

NARCONON EUROPE

DRUG EDUCATION AND REHABILITATION