Families are at a high-time for battling drug abuse and peer pressure; with accessibility to prescription medications and illicit drugs on the streets, adolescents and family members as a whole are threatened with serious health risks and related concerns. Loved ones often experience a feeling of compromise when they bend a little to appease to friends and family – when asked for substances, family members may lean towards saying, “yes” because they don’t want to appear disagreeable or may otherwise attempt to keep peace in the family.
A publication by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) explains that a number of factors can take place within families, which makes them more susceptible for drug abuse and/or peer pressure:
- Feeling abandonment, anxiety, fear, anger, etc.
- Being asked to take on additional responsibilities can add pressure to family members
- Inconsistency in the family dynamic may make it easier for family members to use substances
- Denial that a family member is struggling with substances may only perpetuate the problem
Make zero-tolerance for substance abuse a strict value in your family.
HealthyChildren.org notes that it all starts with parents – preventative talks can help children in the family understand the dangerousness of abusing substances and explaining clear rules against drug use can help as well. Maintain open communication as much as possible and foster a healthy family dynamic. If family members feel their voice is heard, they’ll be less likely to turn to substances.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) notes that certain parenting skills – such as listening, following up with family members in the household, and holding one another accountable can greatly help maintain stability at home. If you’ve been battling substance abuse, speak with a professional from Cumberland Heights today – it’s never too late to take back control of your life.
Cumberland Heights is a nonprofit alcohol and drug addiction treatment center located on the banks of the Cumberland River in Nashville, Tennessee. On a sprawling 177-acre campus, we are made up of two 12-Step immersion campuses, 12 outpatient recovery centers, and 4 sober living homes. We believe that each person has a unique story to tell – and that’s why we always put the patient first. For more information, call 1-800-646-9998 today.
