  3241 Electric Rd
  Roanoke, VA 24018
  Phone: 540- 772-4341

Transitions and Teens: A Guide for Parents

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 unsafe sex and drug and alcohol use, doesn’t have to be.

RECOGNIZE TRANSITIONS

Even life events that are typical and expected- starting puberty or moving up a grade- may feel like a big deal to your tween or teen. By knowing what transitions usually affect kids the most and why, it will be easier for you to recognize the situations that can be emotionally tough for your child.

TOP 5 REASONS TEENS USE DRUGS DURING TRANSITIONS

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 their image/reputation
To fit in with a desired group of friends

HOW YOU CAN HELP

You can’t control the changes that impact your teen, but you can pay attention to his 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. In fact, only 18% of teens whose parents are significantly involved in their life transitions resort to high-risk activities, such as unsafe sex and drug use.

Taken from www.timetotalk.org