PARENTS - A POWERFUL DETERRANT TO SUBSTANCE USE
When you try to talk to your teen about substance use and you are greeted with rolling eyes, turning heads, or an abrupt, "Whatever," do not give up. Parents are the most important influence on a child's decision to abstain from abusing alcohol or drugs. Surveys have shown that middle school youth and teens who think their families would be hurt by their behavior are three times less likely to try marijuana and two times less likely to try cigarettes and alcohol.
When tempted by peer pressure to use alcohol or drugs, your child is more likely to remember your messages when they are clear and free of ambiguity. When making decisions about using alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, most youth (52%) say that they "always" think about how their families would be affected if they started using substances.
Be aware of the messages you are giving your children:
· Give clear "no use" messages. Talk early and often about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs - even when it gets tough. Use phrases like: "I don't approve of…," or "Ill be upset if …"
· Be a role model. As a parent, your attitude toward alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs is one of the greatest influences on whether your child will abuse substances. Being a good role model is an excellent way to show your child and teen how to act responsibly.
· Set limits with clear rules and consequences for breaking them. Regardless of what they may say, children understand, appreciate, and need clear rules and boundaries. Only 16 percent of teens whose parents set a zero tolerance policy reported their individual likelihood of using drugs or alcohol, whereas 45 percent of teens whose parents didn't set such boundaries reported they were likely to drink or use drugs at parties or gatherings.
· Be involved in your child's life. Take time to ask about their activities, friends, and the messages your child receives from peers about alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
· Arm yourself with the facts about alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. Don't assume that the media, schools, and friends are providing your child with appropriate messages. Be prepared to offer facts when your child has incorrect information. Educate yourself about the substances commonly abused. There is a lot to learn because so many substances are being used today, and none are totally harmless. Find out how the drugs work, their street names, signs of being under the influence, what indicates overdose and what to do, and how they affect growth and development.
When parents talk, most teens actually do listen. Before any big event or celebration, remind them of the discussions you have had and of your expectations for them not to use drugs or alcohol. It would be beneficial to get in touch with the parents of your teen's friends to be sure that they are also setting a "no-use" rule and won't be serving or allowing alcohol at their houses. Some parents say they would rather have their kids drink at home where they know they are safe, but this can open the door to other kids drinking and potentially driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Remember, you as parents are legally liable for accidents related to alcohol or drugs consumed at your house.
For more information, contact the Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board at 330-4234-0195.