Yes, it has been shown that people with a family history of addiction can be at higher risk of addiction themselves. But this is far, far from a predetermined outcome. Countless factors are at play here—ranging from where you live, how you were raised, and the friends you chose. The “how you were raised” part is front and center in this post. Your child stands a much better chance at evading the perils of addiction if you, as their parent, play an active and positive role. Not sure how to do that? Well, then, let’s break it down.
5 Ways to Lower Your Child’s Risk of Addiction
1. Start the Conversation Early
You will be tempted to avoid the topic. They’re too young, you may think. Why expose them to such negativity before they need to know about it? However, addiction recovery experts suggest that children as young as 8 or 9 can benefit greatly from such a conversation. You don’t have to get graphic, but please encourage them to ask as many questions as they have. Let them know you are fully available to talk about difficult topics.
2. Be a Role Model
Your kids are always watching and learning. Lead by example. This means far more than not being an addict—although that is quite important. Your responsibility to yourself and your children is to model a good work ethic, a strong self-image, and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. The idea is to demonstrate through word and deed that you can thrive without resorting to substances that falsely appear to be helpful.
3. Teach Self-Efficacy
Self-efficacy describes a unique blend of self-trust and self-control. You believe in your ability to succeed. Simultaneously, you recognize that obstacles exist and have learned how to stay regulated in such trying times. More simply, you do the work so you can appreciate the good times and navigate the bad times.
To inspire self-efficacy in your children:
Do your best to embody it. Show them how you respond when tested.
Assign them challenging chores and tasks that build resourcefulness and confidence.
4. Teach and Model Optimism
To deepen the role model concept, let’s highlight another important quality. Optimism gets a bad rap because it is often associated with blind faith or feeling hope without taking action. On the contrary, optimism is a crucial component of healthy minds and bodies. It fortifies you and grounds you. Pessimistic kids see obstacles. Optimistic children see solutions.
5. Offer Clear Praise
Both optimism and self-efficacy are enhanced by offering specific praise. Make it crystal clear when you witness your child doing things like:
Being resourceful
Not giving up
Overcoming the odds
Not letting frustration slow them down
State clearly what you witnessed and point out the positive qualities they’ve displayed. Conversely, when your children take the easy way out, provide them with general input. Gide them without shattering their self-esteem.
All of This is Easier Said Than Done
There is no shame in feeling overwhelmed with the prospect of guiding your children through so many potential traps and missteps. No one has a how-to manual, and even so, each parent-child relationship has its own unique characteristics. Therefore, it is a logical choice to seek out counseling and support.
Therapy is a safe space you can use as a workshop of sorts. With professional guidance, you can hone your parenting skills. At the same time, you can work on developing your own optimism and self-efficacy—to lead by example. If you’re worried about your children, I suggest you reach out and get the support and help you need and deserve. Let’s connect soon.
