Most teenagers are first exposed to drugs during their junior high school years, and more often than not it is at a party at one of the homes of their friends. Even when parents are chaperoning the party, it is very easy to bring in drugs and hand them out. Studies show that most young people now days start out using prescription drugs from their parents medicine cabinet. Being readily available and legal makes this a simple find for anyone wanting to get high. Once they experience a buzz from opiates (Percocet, Oxycontin, Lortab, etc) they start to crave the feeling and can actually become addicted rather quickly.
Zion Educational Systems Family Advocates understands how drugs can hurt teens. We can help parents find answers for their troubled children. Call 866-471-8579 to learn more.
Help for Parents Whose Children Abuse Drugs
The danger here is that abusing prescription drugs usually leads to trying heroin or cocaine. Heroin has been identified as the drug of choice for young people these days – it is available everywhere, it is cheap, and the high is powerful… for a while. Like all drugs, eventually the need for more is inevitable. If a parents suspects that even a casual use of drugs is happening with their kids, intervening is absolutely necessary. Watch to see if normal behavior patterns become worse or more destructive. Action must be taken. Get your child help!
Now that cannabis is becoming legalized, teenagers feel less guilt or fear in trying this drug, even in states where it is still illegal. Other than problems with the law, trying weed is a fairly harmless recreational drug for young people, much like having a few beers. Unlike in the past, however, marijuana is not believed to be a gateway drug, and with simple guidance by parents or teachers, the dangers can be minimized. The most important thing for parents concerned about their kid’s drug use is to have frank discussions, always coming from a place of love, not fear and anger. When parents listen with an empathetic ear, children will respond because they know they are being heard. Parents have more influence when their approach is respectful.