Damien Shurst

The children are taught about the dangers of smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol at a young age, yet many teens are still involved in drinking and using drugs each year. Although not every teen who engages in these behaviors is diagnosed with addiction, they are at a large risk for future mental health struggles and development delays. It is up to educators and teachers to inform teens about the potential consequences of drugs and alcohol on their developing minds.

How can we prevent Teen Substance Abuse

Teach teens about substance abuse

Teachers and parents who employ a punitive, authoritarian approach to parenting teens with teens will not be effective in preventing them from using drugs or smoking cigarettes, as well as underage drinking. Instead of simply giving information, teens must to be actively connected to their own wellbeing. Teachers may find it helpful to begin teaching on the subject of substance abuse with an assessment.

Students are able to test their understanding of common medications and their effects. Present facts, but leave conversation open for questions. A round table conversation that makes teens' inquisitiveness feel more accepted than problematic could encourage greater participation.

Parents must make their boundaries and rules clear, but they should take communication a step further. Talk to teens about their experiences however, don't be critical. If their friend has been using substances, for instance inquire about what they've observed, what's concerned about, and how it affects them feel. By reading book on addiction prevention, you can help your child get rid of the habit of using drugs.

The position against substance abuse must be strong but it must also be able to be inclusive. Rather than talking down to students, teachers must make them feel genuinely valued. If you are concerned about their well-being, they will be more inclined to act in the same manner. Early education and understanding can be a catalyst for positive behavior for the future. Teens who are taught about substance abuse, including how to refuse to use and how to say no, are less likely to face peer pressure during college. Here's a list of data and warning indicators for drug abuse among college students.

Beware of scare tactics that are overused

Students are most likely to be emotionally feel depressed when they are being told "drugs can cause death" or "you could be next to be killed in a drunk driving crash." While these are legitimate risks worth discussing, you must present these risks in a clear and informative way. Find out what teenagers are passionate about and what they would like to achieve to achieve, and then link those goals with the dangers that could be posed by drinking or using drugs. Someone who is determined to attend college may have problems with their academics if they start drinking or using drugs. They may even be denied scholarships or even expelled from the school.

Ask teenagers to write down the advantages and disadvantages of drinking or using drugs. They should be honest and open about their experiences. They may list some advantages to them, such as increased social interaction and feeling more confident. This is also an opportunity to bring about negative consequences that they are likely unaware of. The purpose of teen substance abuse education should be useful information and awareness. Instead of focusing on the negative aspects of any substance that falls under the umbrella, create a conversation that empowers teenagers to feel like the choice to not use is more beneficial for them and their futures.

Identify warning signs

Parents who have done everything they could to encourage positive behavior can be surprised to learn that the child is abusing alcohol or using drugs. Drug or alcohol abuse doesn't necessarily indicate poor parenting or a lack of education. Some students may start drinking out of boredom, curiosity or pressure from peers. Mental health problems can also place a teen at a greater risk of a substance abuse and self-harm. Parents and teachers need to be aware of subtle warning signs such as substance abuse. They include:

A sudden decrease in academic performance or attendance

More secrecy surrounding private and intimate activities.

Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.

Change the groups you are in with your friends.

Physical changes, such as weight loss, red eyes, dark circles, shaking , and nosebleeds.

Sleepiness has increased at home and in class.

Personality changes may include more depression, sadness, anxiety and/or aggression.

A lot of warning signs teens exhibit are dismissed as "mood swing" or "just an occasional phase." Unfortunately parents and teachers who take this approach are missing crucial opportunities to intervene, which could change the development of a child's. Making sure teens are safe goes beyond speaking to them about the risks and consequences. A positive role in their wellbeing can encourage self-esteem and self-esteem. They will be more confident about their ability to care for their health and feel that others will take care of them.