We all know someone who has experienced the pain and tragedy of substance abuse or addiction, and we long to keep our child safe from such harm. Sometimes we feel powerless in the face of the many temptations our child is likely to encounter. But Dr. Joseph Lee, Medical Director of Hazelden’s Center for Youth and Families, joins Marti & Erin to bring strong words of hope about the power of the messages you give your child and how to talk to your child about drugs and alcohol. And even if your child is still just a tot, it’s never too soon to think about the messages you are sending in words and actions!

 

Thinking about the risk factors mentioned in this Mom Enough discussion, what are the risks that could make your child especially vulnerable to substance abuse? Even if there are no notable risks in your child or your family, what are the social situations that might tempt your child to make unwise choices about substance abuse? What messages are you giving your child in both words and actions and what more could you do to prepare your child to handle risky situations involving alcohol or drugs? Leave a comment below!

 

For tips for how to talk to your child about drugs and alcohol, click here.