One parenting mistake
One parenting mistake parents can make is putting off getting help when they’re teenager needs it. Sometimes we think the problem will resolve itself. Or we deny the problem is as big as it is. Or, we just don’t know who to ask for help. All of these are reasonable and legitimate. But. Waiting to get help when our kids need it can be detrimental and cause far more problems in the future.
A recent survey found there are around 2 million kids between the ages of 12 and 17 in the United States who need help for a substance abuse problem. But only about 150,000 are getting the help they need.
Substance abuse in teenage kids is a far bigger problem than many parents realize. Warning signs are often ignored or dismissed.
Prevention is critical. Early intervention is also key. Setting expectations about what is okay and what is not okay, being vigilant about mental health issues, and taking “experimentation” seriously and not downplaying it as normal teenage behavior are all important things to remember according to addiction specialist Dr. Joseph Lee.
Parents are the first responders. Sometimes certain situations and behaviors can be fixed within the home, but sometimes outside help is critical. As a parent, if you feel your child is headed in a direction that is detrimental, don’t hesitate to get help.
