The
underlying problem needs to be addressed: Why is there a large number of young
adults who turn to chemicals to manage life? There are two factors at play that
push kids over the edge. External: they feel enormous pressure to perform to
meet parental and societal expectations (rather than being self-expressed
freely). And Internal: they lack the character to do so (they don’t feel
capable and confident).
Empowering parenting is
the key.
Offer
general statements like:
You
don’t need to do any of these tasks if it feels too much for you
You
are the only one who knows what’s right for you and you are the one who is choosing
The
answer exists before the problem
I
trust you; you are amazing, capable and smart
You
always trying your best, and I see you succeeding
When
you think of something you want and believe it is possible, it will come to you
Adaptation
of this mind-set will prevent kids from turning to chemicals. They will feel self-assured,
capable and excited to embrace life, not to numb it, block it, and escape from
it.
