The prevalence of substance use among children and adolescents is a growing concern, with alarming reports of drug abuse, trafficking, and involvement in illegal activities. The impact of substance abuse extends beyond individuals to affect families and communities, leading to significant social, physical, and mental health problems.
Recent news stories highlight the urgency of addressing this issue. For instance, a 15 year old girl from Kannur district of Kerala bravely confessed to the media about being drugged, raped, and sexually harassed by fellow students. She revealed that her involvement with drugs, particularly ganja, was introduced by her boyfriend who claimed it would help her overcome depression. This case exemplifies the complex factors contributing to substance use among adolescents.
Several risk factors increase a child’s vulnerability to substance use. These include exposure to drugs, low socio-economic status, parenting quality, peer group influence, biological predisposition towards addiction, family history of abuse or addiction, mental health concerns, and impulse control problems. Adolescents who frequently take risks and have difficulty resisting impulses are particularly susceptible to substance use. Environmental factors such as substance use within the family or peer group and easy access to nicotine, alcohol, or drugs also play a significant role.
The incidents reported in schools demonstrate the need for comprehensive interventions at the governance and policy levels to address the availability and spread of drugs. The detrimental effects of substance abuse on individuals, their relationships, families, and communities are well-known. Instead of delving into these effects in detail, let us focus on what can be done if someone feels exposed to drugs or has developed a dependence on substances. Additionally, we will explore how parents, teachers, and friends can help adolescents overcome such situations.
The first step is to understand the problem by identifying its origins, the factors maintaining it, common features, and the impact on individuals and their surroundings. For example, some adolescents may engage in drug use to fit in with their peer group.
In such cases, it is crucial to get to know the friends and encourage the teenager to socialize within a supportive home environment. Assure them that they can reach out whenever needed. If substance use is driven by insecurities and the need for confidence, discuss their emotional needs and consider seeking professional help, such as therapy, to address these underlying issues.
Understanding the reinforcement adolescents derive from substance use is essential. By comprehending why they engage in drug use, parents and friends can lower their fear and anxiety, empathize with them, and avoid taking it personally. Instead of accusing them, one can recognize their underlying feelings of loneliness, insecurity, depression, or boredom, which can be addressed with support. Understanding the behavior of adolescents and showing empathy can foster a sense of understanding, making them more likely to collaborate on a plan for change. Communication plays a vital role in this strategy, with open-ended questions and affirmations promoting openness and honesty.
It is also important to acknowledge the role of ambivalence. Adolescents may simultaneously desire and resist change, which is a normal part of the process. By appreciating their reasons for both changing and not changing, parents can avoid engaging in arguments that trigger defensive responses. Instead, responding with patience and guiding them slowly towards change can be more effective. Positive and supportive words tend to be more impactful than criticism in encouraging adolescents to listen and collaborate.
Certain key points should be kept in mind throughout this process. Substance use alters the brain, leading to compulsive drug-seeking behavior, which explains why adolescents may repeatedly return to drug use. Early intervention is crucial and more effective than waiting for the situation to worsen. Providing scientific and proper pharmacological and psychological treatments, such as individual psychotherapy, family therapy, and support groups, can greatly assist adolescents in overcoming substance use. Relapse is a common occurrence and does not indicate treatment failure. It can happen during both successful and struggling periods, emphasizing the need for longer-term or repeated treatment.
Lastly, it is important not to let social judgment hinder the assistance that a child or adolescent deserves. Research literature suggests that family-focused prevention programs have been successful in reducing alcohol and drug use in adolescents and improving parenting skills. School-based prevention programs and family-based intensive interventions focusing on family functioning have also shown effectiveness in reducing smoking.
In conclusion, addressing substance use among adolescents requires a comprehensive understanding of the problem and a supportive approach. By recognizing the risk factors, providing early intervention, understanding the underlying motivations, embracing ambivalence, and maintaining open communication, parents, teachers, and friends can play a crucial role in helping adolescents overcome substance use. It is essential to prioritize their well-being, seek appropriate treatment, and create an environment that supports their recovery.
Hadiya
Clinical Psychologist
Pschy Centre for Pscychosocial and Rehabilitation Services