The key to remember is that we're talking about abusers, not typical addicted users. To prevent teen drug abuse and teen alcohol abuse, we must foster in teenagers these feelings of acceptance, self-worth and adequacy.
Good teen self-esteem simply means being happy, and feeling that one is worthy to be happy. It is a reaction to the challenges of everyday life that teenagers and adults face. It also includes confidence in our thoughts and opinions, and a belief in ourselves. Parents can be key in fostering teen self-esteem; in fact you can be a catalyst in keeping them off drugs and alcohol.
The damage done by drug and alcohol addiction can be long-lasting and even fatal. No parent wants their child to go through the torture of substance abuse dependency. This is why it is important to parents to let their teens know that they are valued, and that they deserve their own happiness and contentment. It is never too late to start building teen self-esteem.
According to various health reports, teens are less likely to participate in recreational drugs and binge drinking if they have high self-esteem.
Typically, drug and alcohol abusers are usually people who want the quick high of substance abuse in order to feel good or accepted. They often are people who do not feel wanted or needed in society, and they seek that gratification in the use of drugs and/or alcohol in order to feel better about themselves and the world.
The key to remember is that we're talking about abusers, not typical addicted users. To prevent tean drug abuse and teen alcohol abuse, we must foster in teenagers these feelings of acceptance, self-worth and adequacy.
If teens can learn to feel good about themselves, they can reap the benefits their entire life, and it will be a guarantee that they will never feel the need for substance abuse to make them feel good about themselves. The formula is simple; we are trying to encourage good habits of thinking, rather than the self-destructive habits of drug and alcohol addition
Good teen self-esteem simply means being happy, and feeling that one is worthy to be happy. It is a reaction to the challenges of everyday life that teenagers and adults face. It also includes confidence in our thoughts and opinions, and a belief in ourselves. Parents can be key in fostering teen self-esteem; in fact you can be a catalyst in keeping them off drugs and alcohol.
Kids need rules. It doesn't matter how old they are. Make sure you have rules and stick to them. Also make sure your teen understands why the rules are there. Teens will feel that you are being fair if they understand the reason for the rules. If nothing else, they will know deep down that you do care about them and what happens to them.
Make sure you give them as much positive criticism as negative criticism. When you do offer criticism, always emphasize the positive. If your teen feels like you are just cutting them down, they will quit listening.
Let them do some things by themselves. Teenagers have to become good decision makers, so let them have a little independence. You have to start trusting that the values you instilled in the kids will be stronger then temptations surrounding them. Without some independence they will be more vulnerable to peer pressure instead of being able to make their own decisions.
Keep in touch. Always let your teen know that they can talk to you about their problems. Be there for them, and try to listen and be non-judgmental. Good communication between teens and parents is a great way to prevent drug and alcohol problems.
Dream together. Work on putting you and your teen's dreams in the same place. Work toward a common goal together.
The damage done by drug and alcohol addiction can be long-lasting and even fatal. No parent wants their child to go through the torture of substance abuse dependency. This is why it is important to parents to let their teens know that they are valued, and that they deserve their own happiness and contentment. It is never too late to start building teen self-esteem.
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