How to prevent children from problems related to drugs

Swiss institute of alcoholism prevention and other drug addiction

You are worried about the problem of drugs, like most of the parents.

Do you have any questions on this subject?

Are you looking for a preventive attitude towards your children?

Through concrete examples, this small guide will give you a piece of advice to help you.

Like you, we are convinced that the prevention of drug addiction begins within the family, in the relationship between adults and children, through the reinforcement of self-confidence.

Recent study results show this clearly: the earlier the prevention starts, the more efficient it is.

It is not completely necessary to be a specialist on drug addiction to discuss this subject with your children.

The importance is elsewhere: it is  in the discussion, in the listening, in the mutual confidence.  

It is through gestures and everyday speaking that you are going to establish a relationship which will help you to prevent the problems related to drugs .

You wish that your child  succeeds in life, that he develops his intelligence, his talents and his abilities, that he finds a job that pleases him.

Never forget that school pressure is already strong and that some children cannot deal with it.

A child may have the feeling that he is expected to do a lot, that he is not in the right place at school.

He risks not to know what he is worth, have a nervous breakdown.

It is up to you to support the child, to give him confidence.

Since your child's behaviour is apparently disturbing, could mean that there is a drug problem.

However, there is no obvious sign that clearly shows the beginning of consumption or  a certain dependence, nor any sign shows that an individual takes drugs.

Surprising events like low school performance, minor thefts or even repeated criminal acts are not always a sign of drug consumption or dependence.

Such behavioural problems can also be related to adolescence or other temporary difficulties (for example nervous breakdown or a heartbreak).

The best way to know is to talk directly with your child about this important concern.