How To React To A Child Using Drugs
Yesterday, I posted information on how NOT to react to a child using drugs according to a source called “The Educator’s guide to substance abuse.” As promised, here are some good tips on things you can do.
- Create a tough love environment
It is vital to stop making excuses for the child. Do not lie to protect the child. Do not allow yourself to be held emotionally hostage by the child. If you do not take a firm stand, you may actually be helping the addict to stay ill. - Stop putting up with unacceptable behavior
Remember that accepting negative behaviour from the child will only prolong the illness. As a parent, you must take a stand. Parents are adults who - in most cases - are responsible and mature. Their children are not. Parents have, in most cases, the experience to be able to decide what is good for their children; they should also have the authority to be able to implement these decisions. - Draw up a contract
This is what a typical contract might look like . . . [more] - Find support
Parents and educators need an enormous amount of support and strength to cope with the problem of an uncooperative drug_abusing child. Do not be afraid to reach out for help, such as by joining a parent support group, and if there isn’t one in your area, form one.
Thanks to Servamus for the great information.
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June 4th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
It is always a good idea to push substance abusers who are close to you to seek treatment. However, it is not until they want it for themselves that recovery will be in close sight. Check out 7W Lodge.