Public Spark

Since 2002, the percentage of teens who say they attended high schools with drugs problems increased from 44 percent to 61 percent and the percentage in middle schools has increased from 19 percent to 31 percent (according to survey by Columbia University’s National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse). This is an issue that is continuing to get worse, if not already an epidemic. So what is a parent to do when faced with their teen going to school. Even if their teen is a great, obedient child, they will have to face peer pressures along the way. Here are 5 ways of approaching your teen about drug issues.

1. Don’t be accusatory, even if there is a possibility that they are doing drugs

   As in any relationship situation, it does not help to automatically accuse someone of wrong doing, even if they are doing drugs. That seems really difficult and it is, but it will not help the situation. By allowing a comfortable and empathetic environment, teens will be more apt or keen on opening up. Also, if a parent were to say, “I bet you’re doing drugs. You’re terrible. You’re hopeless,” the teen will probably shut down and take a defensive stand. They will most likely rebel and the situation will spiral out of control. Instead, if you go for a supportive stand and use more “I” statements, such as “I’m concerned that there are drugs going around in school and it scares me. I want to support you,” it may be more effective.

2. Provide them with information

   Currently there are many websites out there that teach teens about drugs. Recently Myspace launched a site called Addiction411 . The government also has drugabuse website. Furthermore, there is an informational site for parents called Antidrug

3. Openly communicate with children since youth

   Hiding the issue or simply telling them to not do drugs is not enough. It is all around the teen’s world, so they need to know how to combat it. Provide them with positive tools such as good coping mechanisms and also the next point.

4. Provide them with a good support network and set strong boundaries

   As a parent, you don’t have to be overbearing, but it is good to be aware of your child’s friends, provide adult support in addition to yourselves, in case they cannot approach you. Also setting reasonable boundaries like not letting young kids hang out past 11 PM and knowing where they are at all times can help as well.

5. Consult with a mental health professional

   Sometimes professionals may need to intervene and be more effective. They can help in providing a support plan to help teens overcome drug issues and provide more positive methods of coping.