Drugs and Alcohol
Many of today's teens see chemical use as a rite of passage. In their eyes they are entitled to a few beers, some mixed drinks, a joint or two, or even a hit of ecstasy after years of parental instruction and authoritative rules. The ability to drive a car, open a checking account, or hold a job are interpreted as signs of maturity, and drinking is just one more validation of adult status.
What Causes An Attraction to Drugs And Alcohol?
A major task of the teen years is to develop an identity. As adolescents struggle to define themselves and their place in the world, peers take on increasing influence. The pressure to conform becomes greater and greater, and teens turn to chemical use to:
1. Medicate or escape emotional pain.
2. Be "cool."
3. Feel less inhibited.
4. Act grown-up.
5. Experiment.
6. Rebel.
How Do You Assess Risk of Drugs and Alcohol Abuse in Teenagers?
Dr. John Irving of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism devised a pre-screening tool to help identify alcohol abuse and addiction. The Yes-No format asks:
1. Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking?
2. Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
3. Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your drinking?
4. Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover?
According to Irving, one YES response suggests a problem, and more than one YES indicates a high likelihood of abuse or addiction.
Ways to Help Teens Cope With the Temptation to Use Drugs and Alcohol
Teens need clear, concise information about chemical use; supportive, positive relationships with friends, family, and God; and caregivers armed with an understanding of the realities and difficulties teens face. Threats and warnings, on the other hand, are a poor weapon. The battle is really about a series of chemical changes and aberrations that reshape the brain and pull the user into a state of powerlessness. Sponsoring fun activities that are chemical-free can go a long way in providing safe alternatives for teens.
Individual therapy, treatment centers, and support groups like AA are some of the traditional chemical abuse remedies. New prescription drugs designed to squelch cravings and control addiction will be available in the near future. They will provide another weapon in the war on addiction. Still, counseling and 12-step programs will be as critical as ever to a teen culture that insists on adult status, but is incapable of adult responsibilities.
Resources
Books:
- Arterburn, Stephen and Jim Burns. (1995) Drug Proof Your Kids. Ventura, CA: Regal Press.
Crandell, Christie. (2006). Lost & Found: A Mother and Son Find Victory Over Teen Drug Addiction. Pascoe Publishing.
- Falkowski, Carol L. (2000) Dangerous Drugs: An Easy-to-Use Reference for Parents and Professionals. Center City, MN: Hazelden Press.
- Rubin, Charles. (2007). Don’t Let Your Kids Kill You: A Guide for Parents of Drug and Alcohol Addicted Children. New Century Publishing.
- Sheff, David. (2009). Beautiful Boy: A Father’s Journey Through His Son’s Addiction. Mariner’s Publishing.
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