Substance abuse (or substance use disorder) can affect children in early childhood, and it is defined is a pattern of using or abusing substances that leads to significant impairment or distress, including health and emotional problems. Behavioral health and substance abuse are associated with the mental health and social service systems. Substance abusers often want to control their use but do not know how to stop it. They are offered addiction recovery programs to help them recover from substance abuse. Here are different ways that can help substance abusers to recover from abuse in honor of Early Childhood Mental Health Awareness Month.
- Effectively Deal With Peer Pressure.
People who are not addicted to any substance are tempted to try drugs or alcohol at one point in their life. Peer pressure is a term that describes how people feel when other people around them pressure them to try something new, mainly if that something is illegal. Peer pressure can be a massive trigger for addiction, even if the person doesn’t intend to become hooked. Substance abusers should avoid situations where they will be put under peer pressure, such as clubs and parties, as far as possible. Substance abusers should also avoid conditions where peer pressure may affect them.
- Avoid Taking Charge of an Addiction.
Substance abusers may argue that they don’t take charge of addiction, but the truth is they are the leaders of their addiction. Nobody is pushing them to use drugs or alcohol; they are the ones who make all the decisions regarding their habit. If they successfully stop using drugs and alcohol for a week, two weeks, or even a month, that doesn’t mean they have overcome their addiction. The earlier they accept responsibility for their actions and seek help from a professional counselor or therapist, the better it will be for them.
- Examine Every Risk Factor.
Substance abusers should know the risks they are exposed to every day. This helps them to prevent themselves from using substances that could cause them harm, including the possibility of harming their health or life. They should also know the consequences they may face if they use the substance, such as losing their job or being arrested. Substance abusers should understand that their addiction could lead to their demise anytime, so they must take note of every risk factor.
Various approaches prevent substance abuse or addiction in children and adults. These approaches are categorized into three major groups: preschool education, school, peer group, and family education involving all family members starting from the toddler stage. New Horizon Counseling Center acknowledges Early Childhood Mental Health Awareness Month, and provides help to individuals who are suffering from substance abuse.
