A Few Words on Chemical Dependency

Janet Ander, MA, LAC

Special K, Ecstasy, and whippets may sound harmless or even pleasant from afar. Sadly, the latest generation of teenagers is fighting addictions against these hardly harmless chemicals… some you might even find under your nose in your own home. It’s true! Two of the greatest threats to adolescents today are the drugs of their parents’ generation (making a ‘come back’) and substances that can be found in your kitchen, garage, or medicine cabinet. Marijuana, cocaine and heroin all placed in the top 5 most commonly used drugs by adolescents in 2009. Many adults are familiar with the presence of these drugs, but many are surprised to find that the second most common drug used by teens, right behind marijuana, is prescription drug abuse. That’s right… the pain killers you didn’t finish after back surgery last summer, or the Robitussin you bought for that awful headcold. Also in the top 5 are inhalants: spray paint, Sharpie markers, computer-cleaning compressed air, gasoline, propane, aerosol cans, and whipped cream – to name a few. For our children, whether it is alcohol, street drugs, or household items, chemical dependency often starts from experimentation. It may be offered to them by a friend, or suggested to them when feeling ‘down’ or anxious. Adolescents will turn to these substances for a quick fix to the stresses of today’s teenage life. It is important that children are not only educated on the impacts of substance abuse, but also provided resources and support for managing stress, depression, and anxiety. Without alternatives, resourceful teenagers will find a way to cope.

In a few weeks, some of the students at Spring Ridge Academy will be attending an intensive workshop to learn about chemical dependency – the beginnings, the impacts, the short and long term effects, and how to start and maintain sobriety. This is when parents begin to ask, “So what can I do to help?” First, EDUCATE yourself and your children at home about which substances are dangerous and why. Next, let your SRA student and your other children know that you SUPPORT abstinence and sobriety – this means no experimenting and a substance free home if necessary. Find RESOURCES and alternatives for children who are struggling with academic and social stressors – counseling, tutoring, healthy youth groups, and after-school activities are a good start. Be ENCOURAGING, even when it feels natural to criticize. Many adolescents turn to substances as a means of coping with the criticism they already hear in their own heads. “I’m not good enough.” “I’m stupid.” “I’m a screwup.” What adolescents need are cheerleaders – adult who believe in them and notice their successes. Finally, have PATIENCE. Adolescents can be frustrating and so can the process of recovery they are going through. If you have a family member with a substance abuse problem or who is in recovery, be patient and find resources for yourself. Keeping yourself healthy makes you a better resource to others.

Janet Ander, MA, LAC is a therapist at Spring Ridge Academy.