A common fear for people in recovery is that their children may experiment with drugs and alcohol. In fact, this may be a concern for any parent regardless of their own history. The truth is that there is no clear cut answer because you can’t really lock your children up and forbid them from going outdoors.

The best defense for your children is prevention and education. Drugs and alcohol are often marketed to look fun and enjoyable. The media even shows people celebrating and having the best times of their lives while drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes. You can only educate your kids and inform them on their options, but you really don’t have control over every decision they make as they are reach adulthood. Education is key.

Share your experiences with your children. Let them know how your drug of choice negatively impacted your life and led to negative decisions. Make sharing your experience a time to learn between you and your child. You do not have to give all the sordid details of your use, but inform them of how it impacted you and the choices you made. As you share, encourage your teen to attend Alateen meetings and allow them to experience sharing with other teens in similar experiences. Al Anon meetings are similar in nature but are for adults. Adult children and other family members can attend Al Anon meetings to share about how they feel about your prior use and your current recovery.

Alateeen meetings can help deter your children from abusing drugs and alcohol as they will have a safe place to explore these cravings or pressures as they arise. The meetings are a great way to allow your teen the access to support while you practice your journey of sobriety. They will learn effective ways to cope with their problems and challenges, which is a positive deterrent from alcohol or drug abuse. There are plenty of Alateen and Al Anon meetings in the Fort Myers area. Go online and search for these specialized meetings.

Help is just a phone call away. At The Kimberly Center, we care about you, your family, and your recovery. Contact us now at 855-4-KCENTER. We are committed to helping you stop the cycle of addiction with education and treatment. We encourage family to be part of your recovery process. At the Kimberly Center, you are in safe and trusted hands.