No matter how old you are, you always feel a natural urge to help the people who gave you life and raise you. (It’s pretty much a natural part of being human to return to your caregivers.) However, in an unfortunate twist, good behavior isn’t the only aspect we pick up from our parents. Sometimes, a few bad eggs can be thrown into the mix, as well. Sadly, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) confirmed that 25% of kids growing up in the United States live in households plagued by substance abuse and/or addiction. Even worse, in houses where more than one adult uses drugs or alcohol, children are 2 times more likely to develop similar problems down the road in comparison with other kids. So, how can you (the kid) help your parents if they are suffering from these problems so you can also guarantee your future is secure? Let’s take a closer look and find out more information.
Completely Reversing the Roles
Although your parents were your primary caregivers for the majority of your life, sometimes you need to step in to provide care for them, especially if they have fallen victim to addiction or abuse. In situations like this, you (the child) must serve as the emotional center and the caregiver, but this role is never easy to fill, particularly if you are still going through school. You know the drill: cleaning up after a father’s binge drinking or getting a job to help pay the bills. Dealing with an addicted parent is not only exhausting but (understandably) infuriating. After all, how are you as a child or teen supposed to react? Being angry is only natural.
Building Self-Confidence Is the Key
In a very unfortunate twist that is all too common, children will be frightened to talk to other adults about their parents’ problems out of guilt or fear, given the fact that the parents might be verbally or physically abusive. Sometimes, on a deeper level, the parents themselves will be frightened of losing their children if authorities find out about their drug use.
So how can you build up your confidence and take charge despite overwhelming circumstances? Here are some examples:
- Seek out another adult (or adults) you can speak to and trust.
- Record your feelings of frustration, anger, or sadness in a journal.
- Keep your friends close.
- Make a list of emergency phone numbers in case the worst should happen (e.g. overdose, physical assault).
- Make a list of places that are safe and secure.
- MOST IMPORTANTLY: Understand that none of this is your fault.
Always remember that drugs and alcohol 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, alcohol abuse, or addiction troubles today.
