Teen drug abuse: 14 mistakes parents make
The good news? Parents can also do a lot more than some realize to help protect teens from drugs or alcohol. One key is avoiding simple mistakes, like these 14 cited by addiction specialist Dr. Joseph Lee, a spokesman for the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and medical director the Hazelden Center for Youth and Family, an addiction treatment facility in Minneapolis.
Mistake: Failing to set expectations
Mistake: Ignoring mental health issues
If your child undergoes an evaluation for drug abuse, make sure it includes a thorough mental health screening.
Mistake: Assuming experimentation is no big deal
Mistake: Being dishonest about your drug use
Mistake: Blaming yourself (or your spouse)
Don't ignore the past, Dr. Lee says, but keep your eyes on the present. If your child is involved in therapy, there will be ample time to make things right.
Mistake: Setting a bad example
Mistake: Being judgmental
Mistake: Failing to consider risk factors
Mistake: Confusing intelligence with maturity
Mistake: Not locking the medicine cabinet
Be sure to keep track of all drugs in your home. If you no longer need pills, get rid of them. And pay attention to other substances around the house that have the potential for abuse, including solvents, aerosols, etc.
Mistake: Failing to consider family history
There are no hard and fast rules for what is acceptable for all families, Dr. Lee says. And a teen can develop a substance abuse problem even in the absence of any family history of addiction.