Parents play a specific role in prevention education. The earlier a child starts experimenting with substances, the more likely they are to develop an addiction. The Center on Addiction found that children who began using substances like tobacco, alcohol, or prescription medications before the age of 15 were seven times more likely to experience substance misuse problems in their adult life. As a parent, you are the first line of defense against addiction. Here’s how you can support your children through their impressionable years.
Understand risk factors and signs of substance misuse
One of the most important measures to preventing substance misuse is learning more about the risk factors and early signs of abusive behavior. Important risk factors for substance misuse include a family history of misuse, favorable parental attitudes toward substances, poor parental vigilance, and mental health issues.
While these risk factors are an important aspect of preventing substance misuse, the early signs are even more important. By quickly identifying your child’s experimentation, you can take early and decisive steps to provide them with the parenting and resources they need to avoid addiction. Early warning signs include:
- Association with substance misusing peers
- Lack of school connectedness
- Low academic achievement
- Lack of engagement
By understanding the implicit risk factors and early warning signs of substance misuse, you can begin to take the first steps toward helping your child.
State clear expectations regarding drug use
One of the typical risk factors associated with childhood substance misuse is parental views and expectations toward certain substances. By setting clear lines and not subconsciously encouraging your children toward alcohol and drugs, you can set the right expectations. Have clear, direct discussions with your children about alcohol and drugs. These discussions don’t have to be once in a while, they can happen frequently. By constantly reaffirming your beliefs and attitudes toward substances, you can equip your children with the necessary skills to make proper judgments.
Be supportive and involved in your child’s life
This preventative step works in tandem with setting clear expectations regarding drug and alcohol use. By taking an active role in your child’s life, you’re providing support and help as your child grows up. Your child will also be more encouraged to talk to you about different problems and experiences they’re facing. By providing the right level of attention to your child, you can ensure they’re protected from substance misuse.
Have open discussions with your children about drug use
By having frequent discussions with your children, you are taking the most important step toward ensuring they avoid addiction. Conversations don’t have to be built up to a big moment or happen once a year. They can occur frequently and help you develop your relationship with your children.
Practice active listening without judgment
A major part of having open discussions about sensitive topics with your children is practicing active listening. When you immediately judge or scorn a child for a mistake, improper view, or judgment, you can risk alienating them. Once they reach a certain age, it’s important to treat them with a level of autonomy. While children often lack proper judgment, being an active listener and supporter can allow you to shepherd them away from negative experiences that they may otherwise be unable to avoid. Children aren’t equipped with the same judgmental faculties as adults and, therefore, need guidance. By being too firm and not practicing active listening, you can risk alienating your child and driving them toward the negative experiences you were initially trying to protect them from.
Understanding and addressing mental health issues
Mental well-being plays a substantial role in preventing substance misuse, as emotional disorders can often lead to substance use for self-soothing purposes. Actively identifying and addressing mental health symptoms in your child can curtail the inclination to resort to substances. This requires open, empathetic dialogue with your child about their feelings and experiences.
If you observe persistent signs of mental distress, professional consultation is vital. Experts can accurately identify the problem and recommend appropriate intervention methods. However, prevention doesn’t end at therapy or medication. It’s equally crucial to foster an accepting and secure environment at home, minimizing the likelihood of your child seeking solace in substances.
The role of schools in substance misuse prevention
Schools play a crucial role in preventing substance misuse among children and adolescents by providing education, support, and a safe learning environment. The foundation of an effective school-based substance misuse prevention program lies in collaboration with parents, community organizations, and healthcare professionals. Here’s how schools can contribute significantly to substance misuse prevention:
Educating students on the risks
Schools can integrate substance misuse education into the curriculum to teach students about the physical, emotional, and social risks associated with substance use. This education should be age-appropriate and reflect the realities of substance misuse, including legal consequences and long-term health effects. Resources such as the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) provide valuable information that can be utilized in educational materials.
Creating a supportive environment
A positive school climate that promotes student engagement and a sense of belonging can significantly reduce the likelihood of substance use. Schools can foster this environment through anti-bullying policies, student clubs and activities, and access to mental health resources. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers guidelines on creating healthy school environments.
Implementing evidence-based prevention programs
Adopting evidence-based prevention programs that have been shown to reduce substance use among young people is key. Programs that address social and emotional learning, enhance peer relationships, and teach coping skills are particularly effective. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) maintains a list of evidence-based programs suitable for schools.
Involving parents and the community
Engaging parents and the wider community in prevention efforts can reinforce the messages students receive in school. Schools can organize workshops, informational sessions, and events that encourage parental involvement and community collaboration. The Partnership to End Addiction provides tools and strategies for community engagement.
Early identification and intervention
Schools are in a unique position to identify early signs of substance use and intervene before issues escalate. Training staff to recognize the signs of substance misuse and establishing clear protocols for intervention and referral to support services can make a substantial difference in a student’s life.
Providing access to resources and support
Offering resources and support for students struggling with substance use or those affected by someone else’s use is vital. This can include counseling services, referral to external support groups, and educational resources for coping and recovery.
Schools are essential in the fight against substance misuse among children and adolescents. By educating students, creating a supportive environment, implementing evidence-based programs, involving the community, and providing necessary support, schools can significantly reduce the prevalence of substance use and its associated harms. Collaboration across all sectors of the community enhances the effectiveness of these efforts, ensuring a comprehensive approach to prevention.
Being a parent is difficult, but with the right guidance, you can set your children up for a successful, fulfilling life. Read Wellspring’s Blog for more preventative parenting tips on how to ensure your child is equipped to handle the challenges of growing up.