We all understand how bullying can take a toll on a person’s mind and body, but, as parents and caretakers, we never want to hear that our children are being lashed by harsh words and a string of obscene cruelties. Despite our attempts to protect little ones, though, bullying will always be a fact of life that can never be stopped. In turn, our best chance is to fight it as best as we can and attempt to move on. However, for young ones who are just entering the joys of life, harassment and venomous bullying can often result in introverted behavior and (in the worst case scenario) lead to behavioral problems, including drug use (or addiction). So how are bullying and drug use connected? How do these two problems go hand-in-hand? Let’s take a closer look and find out.
Proof Is in the Pudding
Everyone is aware of how emotionally challenging bullying can be to a child. However, in a study from 2011 to 2014, a team of researchers from the American Academy of Pediatrics shed some new light on this unfortunate problem. As part of the project, the researchers studied 5,000 students from schools in Alabama, California, and Texas. In scheduled succession, the team analyzed each student when they reached 5th, 7th, and 10th grades.
Ultimately, the researchers found that students who suffered from bullying in the 5th grade were more likely to consume marijuana, alcohol, and tobacco than other students by the time they entered 10th grade.
Warning Signs
Obvious warning signs of bullying may include changes in your child’s behavior or the sudden and frequent occurrence of bruises, cuts, and abrasions. Likewise, a boy or girl may be afraid to be separated from their friends or walk alone. Although physical bullying is easily counteracted, psychological and emotional bullying is an even greater cause for concern. Here are some examples of the different types of bullying:
- Verbal Bullying: saying or writing cruel things to a victim (including name-calling)
- Social Bullying: an attempt to destroy a person’s relationships
- Physical Bullying: injuring a victim (slapping, hitting, or punching)
- Cyberbullying: sending cruel texts or providing false information (fake pictures, fake quotes)
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
