There is a ton of research that points to youth using drugs for reasons outside of "peer pressure." Often that research points to the way youth think: about themselves, about their authority figures, and about substances. In the DEA's "Get Smart about Drugs" program, a few of the listed risk factors for drug use are:
I remember being a teen. I remember having this perception that life was NOT GOOD when it was not PERFECT. That NO ONE could understand my negative emotions that I was feeling or if someone could, I wouldn't be the one to weigh them down with my issues. In retrospect I realize that often during adversity, I felt ALONE. Even with a caring family and supportive friends, my internal struggles were just that- MINE and kept INSIDE. Consequently, leading me to turn to external sources for temporary "relief." What am I saying here? Well, one thing for sure, is that we as as preventionists, as parents, as community leaders, as positive peers- have to impact the way our youth think! In reading an excellent book, "The Resilience Breakthrough," by Christian Moore, I came across an awesome quote by Dr. Theodore Rubin. Dr. Rubin said something profound that I would identify as necessary to address, "The problem is not that there are problems. The problem is expecting otherwise, and thinking that having problems is a problem." Working in the field of prevention I have learned that often times those who turn to these temporary and harmful forms of "relief" often do so as a method to get rid of their problems. To run from adversity as if it won't follow. Is it possible that we think it's a problem to have problems. Enough chat and anecdotes, here are some strategies I suggest for altering our thinking process and that of our youth: 1. Create a habit of being vulnerable, compassionate and empowering- Remember that we are all human and have struggled with SOMETHING in our life. Talk about those struggles, talk about how you have overcome and how you continue to do so as similar circumstances arise. Discuss how your struggle eventually developed your strengths. Resource: Here's a community for those who have quit or who want to quit smoking where. Amazing blogs and resources https://excommunity.becomeanex.org/ 2. Educate- Inform your youth about the truths of drugs, alcohol, unsafe sexual practices, etc. Let them know consequences. Be raw, be honest and if helpful share how you know about these dangers of these temporary sources of satisfaction. Leading me to my next point Resource: Here's a website with some facts about tobacco products, including JUULs. Knowledge is power, right?! https://therealcost.betobaccofree.hhs.gov/?g=t 3. Build from within and develop healthy coping skills- These "sources of satisfaction" that I keep referring to are external and thus, temporary. Developing healthy habits, building resilience, a sense of self worth, belongingness, and an understanding that having problems is not a problem, will go much further than these external ever could. Resource: Here's a website with several free activities and tips on building resilience for adults, teens and kids https://positivepsychologyprogram.com/resilience-activities-worksheets/
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AuthorBri Green, Program Coordinator ArchivesCategories |