At BAPC, we’re often asked by parents, caregivers and educators, in our community, to share tips and strateges for preventing youth from experimenting with drugs, alcohol and other substances. Many parents are aware that teens often have a prevelant misconception about the safety of experimenting with substances including marijuana and prescription drugs.
In order to provide the community with the most current and helpful information for prevention, we often connect with lcoal specialists who provide substance abuse related counseling support to teens. I recently sat down with MJ Woodburn, and asked her to share her twenty-six years of wisdom as a licensed drug and alcohol counselor [LADC]. MJ is currently a LADC with Rocking Horse Circle of Support, a state-funded health education support program for parenting mothers who are questioning their own use of alcohol and rugs or who are experienceing the effects of another’s substance using behaviors. In addition to her work with Rocking Horse, MJ has a private practive in Brattleboro and Bellows Falls.
MJ confirmed what we already know; adolescent brain developement continues to the age of twenty five. From age eleven on, areas in the rbaint hat control planning, problem solving, impulse control and reasoning skills are being built. Use of drugs and alcohol during this critical developmental time can change the way the brain develops. Decisions made youth now, such as experimenting with drugs and alcohol, may impact them for the rest of their lives.
MJ explained that during this phase of brain development, a teen is experiencign the second highest growth support they will ever have. New neurons are blasting and the body requires additional support. The natural needs of a teenage body become much that of an infant, requiring additional sleep and nutrition. Many of us recall our teenage years of sleeping until noon and an insatiable appetite. There were good reasons for it – our brains were developing! MJ feels it’s important to remind parents that this growth period provides an opportunity for teaching self-care adn leading by example with our own lives. How do we handle our stress? Are we eating healthy, getting enough sleep and making time for physical exercise? Our children our watching us, even when we think they are oblivious, they are primed for teachable moments through our own self-care.
Studies show that the more often a child is exposed to substances, including alcohol and tobacco, the more likely they are to experiment. MJ doesn’t suggest that you shouldn’t enjoy a glass of wine in the evening, but, she hopes that parents will be mindful in their attitude and comments about their choices and how they are perceived by young people. Has your child overheard you make a casual comment such as, “After the day I’ve had, I really need a glass of wine!” or “Work is making me crazy, I need a drink to calm my nerves.”? While this sort of statement may seem harmless it’s important to consider the message it sends to kids, which may translate to, “Hey, when I’m stressed I can use alcohol to help me deal”. An alternate message might be something like “Hey, I had a rough day, how about we take a quick walk and get some fresh air”. Chewing also helps alleviate stresss so consider having fresh veggies, hummus or apples available as an after school snack. Encourage your kids to come home and munch away their day and allow them to take a quick cat-nap to refresh before diving into homework.
While inceased appetite and the need for sleep are normal needs for teenage growth, MJ also expressed the importance of being aware not to confuse these needs with the warning signs your teen may be experiencing with substances, such as marijuana. Be aware and if you notice signs such as decreased short-term memory, anxiety, reduced ability to concentrate, lack of interest in activities that previously caused pleasure and learning challenges, it may be time to have a talk with your teen. Get outdoors and go for a walk. Talk about some of the stresses you face and your struggles and strategies for self-care and stress management and ask your teen to share their stresses with you. Don’t feel like you need to have all the answers at that moment; the important part is just being their to listen. Consider creating a family plan for stress management and be mindful of the example you set for your children.
For more information on how marijauan use effects the developing adolescent brain and for resources for talking with your child about the risks of marijuana use visit The Blunt Truth or Parent Up VT.
Shannon Albritton is the communications coordinator for the Brattleboro Area Prevention Coalition [BAPC], a local nonprofit that organizes community efforts involved in the ongoing prevention and reduction of alcohol, tobacco, and otehr drugs abuse in the Windham Southeast area. The coalition meets in Brattleboro on the second Friday of each month at 12pm, from September – June and all are welcome. To learn more about their prevention efforts or how you can contribute visit their website or call 802.257.2175
