by Keeshler Pittman

Created on: May 16, 2009   Last Updated: May 27, 2009

The key to preventing drug use by teens is to lead by example. There are many parents who tell their children not to use drugs. However, many who do not encourage drug use are users. We must lead by example.Also, keeping a close family connection with children is imperative. Latch key children often turn to drugs to fill a void in their life. With an increasing amount of single mothers, latch key children are on the rise. These are the children who have to fend for themselves after school. They have to do their homework alone. They have to prepare theirmeals alone. They watch television alone. Thus, they feel alone. They turn to friends or associates for companionship. Some friends and associates could influence them. Most children try drugs because their friends encourage them to do so. It is usually not very difficult to pinpoint children who use drugs.

If a parent is excessively absent from home, they need to find a comfort zone for their children. If they have trustworthy family or friends, they need to ask for help. They need to have someone who will keep a watchful eye. If possible, allow your child to be with a trustworthy person after school. All children, including teens need supervision in order to minimize bad decision making. There are many after school programs. You can be referred to various programs through social service agencies. If you ask, you will more than likely find a suitable and affordable program. We usually have not because we ask not.

Also, we must learn what interests our children. We can actively invest in their interests. If they like to dance, let them take dancing lessons. If they like to sing, let them sing at talent shows. If they like to paint, keep supplies on hand. If they like to write, keep plenty of paper around the house. Ask questions. Get to know who your children are. Find out what they feel about various issues. Talk to them as often as possible. When children feel loved and appreciated, they often have no need to desire drugs.

Currently, there seems to be a major problem among adults. This problem is pain medication abuse. There are people who take pain medications for a high. The sale of pain medicine is big business. Many famous people have battled pain medication addiction. I do not believe it is always intentional, but this happens often. If you take pain medication as prescribed, you could possibly become dependent. Using the medication as needed probably will prevent such a strong craving for pain medications.

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>