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Spring has finally sprung and with the transition from spring to summer comes plenty of transitions for our teens. Tweens are transitioning from grade school to middle school, young teens are transitioning from middle school to high schoo l and older teens will soon be heading off to college. Others are starting new summer jobs, camps, or travel with changes in schedules, social circles, responsibilities and expectations inherent in these activities.
They say that "the only thing permanent in life is change," and that may very well be true. But just because change is natural, that doesn't make it any easier - especially for teens. Studies show that adolescents who haven't tried drugs or alcohol are more likely to start during times of transition in order to cope with stress. But don't worry - while change is a part of life, risky behavior, like drug and alcohol use, doesn't have to be. |
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Helpful tips |
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The top five reasons teens use drugs or alcohol during transitions are:
- To combat loneliness, low self-esteem, anxiety or depression
- To mentally "check out" of family issues or school trouble
- To ease discomfort in an unfamiliar situation
- To look cool or change one's image/reputation, and
- To fit in with a desired group of friends
You can't control the changes that impact your teen, but you can pay attention to his/her feelings, concerns and needs. Staying involved in your child's life during tough transitions is the single most important thing you can do to help keep him from experimenting with drugs and alcohol.
So remember to encourage open dialogue and take time to talk with your teens about their feelings, their activities, your concerns and expectations as they navigate the ever-changing tides of adolescence! For more information, click here. |
