Prevent your children from having drug problems

by the Swiss Institute for the prevention of alcoholism and other substance abuse

Like most parents, you are worried by the problem of drugs.

Do you have questions about this matter?

Would you like to adopt a preventive approach with your children?

This booklet will provide you with useful information, through concrete examples.

Like you, we are convinced that the prevention of dependence begins at home, through the relationship between adults and children.

This is done through reinforcing the child's self-esteem.

The findings of recent studies clearly show that the earlier prevention starts, the more efficient it will be.

You do not necessarily need to be an expert in drug dependence to talk about this issue with your children.

What really matters is talking together, listening to each other, and having mutual confidence in one another.

Only daily actions and words will help you forge a relationship which will allow you to prevent your children from drug problems.

Your desire for your child is that they have a successful life, develop their intellectual faculties, their talents, and other abilities, and then find a job they would like.

Yet, never forget that pressure linked to school is quite strong, and that some children find it impossible to cope with it.

A child can have the feeling that too much is being expected from them, that school is no place for them.

There is a risk that they feel undervalued, or even be at the end of their tether.

It is up to you to support your child, to give them a sense of confidence.

If your child's behavior is obviously worrying, it may well be a sign of drug related problems.

Nevertheless, there is no manifest sign which could clearly indicate that your child has started taking drugs, or has become addicted to drugs, as there is no clear sign showing that someone is taking drugs.

Striking facts, such as an unexplained worsening of school results, minor thefts, or repeated offences, are not automatically a sign of drug consumption or addiction.

Such behavioural problems are sometimes due to puberty, or other momentary difficulties (overwork, for instance, or a broken relationship).

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