Click here to visit the Avanti Counseling Webpage
Guidance Information
TALKING IS THE BEST FORM OF PREVENTION
Adolescents need information to make good decisions. Often times parents wait until a problem arises, which results in reactive consequences. By talking to your child before a problem presents itself, they will be more prepared to make healthy decisions. Statistics have shown that children whose families effectively communicate, specifically about the dangers and consequences of alcohol and/or other substance use, are less likely to engage in substance abuse and related behaviors.
Recent information published by Dept. of Health and Human Services states that one out of every two 8th graders has tried alcohol, more kids use alcohol than tobacco or other illicit drugs, and children who begin drinking before the age of 15 are 5 more times likely to develop alcohol problems than those who start after age 21.
It’s critical for parents to begin talking to their adolescents early and often to establish habits of open communication. This also creates an opportunity for parents to share family interests, values, and expectations. Your own actions are the most powerful indicators to your adolescents as to what is appropriate and acceptable in your family.
Monitor your adolescent’s activities by knowing where they are, who they are with, and limiting the amount of unsupervised time. Setting specific rules and consistently enforcing consequences will help protect their safety and well being.
Adolescents are less likely to have alcohol and/or substance abuse problems when they have active caring adults invested in them. Think about what you say and how you act around them. It may just save their life.
For more information please contact Cindy Mitchell, Chemical Dependency Professional for OSD at 596-8547.