Talking to your children about the dangers of tobacco, alcohol, drug and substance abuse can be very difficult. While it may be difficult to start here are some basic facts about underage tobacco, alcohol and drug use to consider.
Alcohol is the number one drug of choice for America’s young people, and is more likely to kill young people than all illegal drugs combined.
Each day, 7,000 kids in the United States under the age of 16 take their first drink.
Those who begin drinking before age 15 are four times more likely to develop alcoholism than those who begin at age 21. Considering those facts , while it may be hard to talk with your child about the use of / abuse of alcohol, tobacco and drugs it is one that is so very necessary. Below are some basics from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on how to go about talking to your kids about the very real dangers of abusing tobacco, alcohol and drugs.
What do I need to say?
When you talk about tobacco, alcohol, and drugs:
Teach your child the facts.
Give your child clear rules.
Find out what your child already knows.
Be prepared to answer your child’s questions.
Talk with your child about how to say “no.”
Why do I need to talk to my child?
Have serious trouble in school
Get hurt in a car accident
Be a victim of crime
Have a problem with addiction as an adult If you say nothing, your child may think it’s okay to use alcohol and other drugs.
Talk with your child early and often.
Start conversations about your values and expectations while your child is young. Your child will get used to sharing information and opinions with you. This will make it easier for you to continue talking as your child gets older.
Here are some tips:
Use everyday events to start a conversation. For example, if you see a group of kids smoking, talk about how tobacco hurts the body.
Give your child your full attention. Turn off your TV, radio, cell phone, and computer, and really listen.
Try not to “talk at” your child. Encourage your child to ask questions. If you don’t know the answer to a question, look it up together.
Take Action!
Talk with your child about tobacco, alcohol, and drugs today – and keep the conversation going.
We Are Here To Help
If you are concerned that you, a family member or a friend may have a problem with alcohol abuse or alcoholism please contact the BES Group / Solutions Plus today, we are here to help. Whether it’s getting help for substance abuse, or getting help alcoholism or alcohol abuse is the first step to having a productive and healthy life. Call the BES Group / Solutions Plus today at 1-855-708-5483.