How do we encourage these young kids that are using to want a better life?

communication
support
#1

What can we say to make them believe in themselves

#3

I believe in the power of focusing on the positive and being encouraging as a parent, which you also mention. I try to find specific things he’s done that he can be proud of, and I have told him it’s very helpful to have a daily gratitude practice - it’s one of those habits that can retrain the brain to focus on the good things and not the bad. Daily gratitude really helps me overcome the down times for myself.

#2

I think what’s most helpful to my 24-year-old son is interacting with his peers, which can be tough depending on what kind of hold the addiction has. For instance, he’s attended two college graduations of his best friend and his own younger brother, and traveled to Colorado with a couple of friends. It’s great to have the example of friends or siblings of a similar age who are sober and living their lives. It’s a reminder of what is waiting out there for him.

My husband has also gone on some short motorcycle rides with him (when my son still had his motorcycle license) and he has gone on a couple of family outings to fun, usually outdoor settings.

#4

Michelle_Marie, This is a great question. I keep pushing my son into treatment programs. When they are not working the clinicians always say: “He has to want recovery” Well how do you help someone want recovery? I know how great of a person my son is. His potential is tremendous. He is smart and articulate and personable. However he does not believe in himself. How do you get someone to love themselves? He keeps saying he wants a better life. Hates himself for being a drug addict. He knows all the education behind his disease of addiction. Yet the only thing that soothes his negative thinking is his drug of choice an opiate.

#5

I think most of them want a better life. They just think the drugs are making them feel better. It’s such a lie. They don’t understand the trouble it causes for themselves and their family or loved ones. Educating about the effects of drugs is important because the more they know about it, the less likely they’ll be to get involved with drugs. Acceptance by peers is important. Most are seeking acceptance but they turn to drugs to achieve that if their peers use drugs. It’s important that kids have opportunities to be in groups where they feel accepted for their own personality and skills. I’d encourage kids to get involved in a group like sports, 4-H, Scouts, Church groups, dance etc. Whatever they are interested in.
Of course there are no easy answers. We can only show them respect, love, compassion and encouragement and try to do what we can to help lead them in a good direction.
I’d love to see more community programs that promote individuality and acceptance in a fun setting with caring adults to oversee and guide them.