How to take care of your kids if they are involved with drugs

Parents have a responsibility for their children, and they need to do everything to protect them from illnesses, danger and bad life situations. You should talk to them about drugs before they get into alluring situations. Today, children are exposed to many "popular" drugs. Through the conversation, we will be able to explain to our children what is behind the consumption of harmful substances. Remember, it is never too late or too early to start the topic of drugs, regardless of your child's age. Children often feel uncomfortable talking to their parents about drugs, because they know they are doing a bad thing that is forbidden. Proper information is necessary for the child to get the whole picture and to get acquainted with all the scenarios that drug experimentation can bring. Parents are role models for their children and primarily learn from them about tobacco, alcohol and drugs. That is why it is important to have an open conversation with your child and to correctly explain what all the consequences of drugs can be.

However, when children try drugs, you should react as soon as possible. Below, learn how to take care of a child who has tried drugs and how to motivate a child not to engage in further experimentation with drugs.

Children learn by examples

You must teach children from an early age about the harmful effects of drugs. If you have a preschool child and you are giving him certain therapy or the child is being treated for the flu, he will have to take pills. Then it is the right time to educate the child about what kind of pills exist and why they are used. Teach your child never to use tablets improperly, but only as directed by a doctor or pharmacist. In preschool, the child will pay attention to the guidelines and will develop behaviour towards pills. Also, you can teach a child through content watched on TV. If you are watching a hero movie who smokes cigarettes, explain to the child what effect cigarettes have on the body and talk about the harmful effects. Try to adequately explain to the child how the drugs are consumed, how they affect the person, what long-term consequences they leave. If you are not sure, first research the whole topic to give the child precise information. Substance abuse is not uncommon and many adults struggle with it. State institutions can also seize children from their parents if they have become a threat to their children due to the use of illegal substances or alcohol and endangering their safety. The child and his childhood are in the first place, and the law is adjusted to defend their rights.

The children are curious

Until the child enters puberty, he will be delighted to talk to his parents and will be open to new knowledge and advice. This period is very important because the child builds an attitude about harmful substances. Children explore and like to ask questions and we have to answer every question. When a child enters puberty, he will encounter other people who have already tried drugs. However, they will continue to talk to their parents and may express interest or concern. This period is ideal for talking to your child about how alcohol or psychoactive substances affect their body and mind in everyday life. If a child embarks on an adventure and admits to you that he was driving under the influence of alcohol, you should revoke his license for a while. This punishment can be an incentive for the child to stop driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances. You need to talk openly about the consequences of drunk driving. Express your expectations and attitudes, to make your child take you seriously. Get a drug test kit that can easily check if your child has used unwanted substances.

Follow who he hangs out with

A child who hangs out with people who use drugs can try them more easily because they are at their fingertips. It is important to know who your child is hanging out with and it is good to get to know their parents. Parents have the task of being involved in their child's life and of following events at school, part-time jobs or going out to a party. You can't always be with your child, but when you create an honest relationship the child will tell you details that will indicate if everything is okay.

It is very important how your child feels

Children can experience confusing times just like adults. When you notice that your child is depressed or angry, sit down and talk with them. When a child is undergoing a period of loneliness or has some problems at school or in society he can turn to experiment with drugs, because drugs are often presented as a kind of escape and consolation. Until then, you should not allow your child to get the impression that with the help of drugs he will be able to feel better or more confident in himself. Children who do not have support in their family will seek help elsewhere. They can get inadequate information that will take them even further away from the initial goal to stay healthy and safe.

What should a drug conversation look like?

If your child has tried drugs, conversations should become more frequent so it does not happen again. If you notice this happening again and becomes dangerous for the child, it is best to seek medical advice. Some techniques include talking to experts which will be effective in resolving this problem. If the child has not tried drugs, you should have educational conversations and inform the child about all possible scenarios of drug use citing real examples. It is significant to establish a family attitude about drugs. You have to explain to the children why something is forbidden. Punishment alone is not enough, because it arouses curiosity in children and for that very reason they may want to try drugs.

Substance abuse

When your child abuses certain substances, just stay calm. This is a serious problem that cannot be solved by shouting. It takes peaceful conversation and patience. You don't have to blame yourself and say you're a bad parent. Think about what you need to do. Talk to your child about their choices. Build trust and do not judge or insult your child. Avoid conflicts and try supporting the child not become addicted to harmful substances. If you can't do it yourself, seek expert advice and help.

Parents need to monitor their child's behaviour and react swiftly if they notice the child is using drugs or alcohol. In addition to experts, teachers and school counsellors, drug support organizations and your child's friends can help you with this problem. Make the best decision for your child and be with him.

Leo King is a 28-year-old freelance English teacher and a passionate part-time writer. He is interested in reading and writing articles. He lives with his wife in Sydney. Here is his Twitter