Parents, school counselors, and mental health service professionals can help children by teaching substance abuse prevention as early as possible. While many adults may feel tempted to postpone the discussion until teenage years, the reality is that many children may encounter illicit substances much sooner. The professionals from NorthKey Community Care, a mental health and addiction treatment organization with multiple locations in Northern Kentucky, including Covington, understand the impact these formative early years can have on drug use later. If you have young children, you may want to learn about the importance of addressing the subject as early as possible.

Why Teach Substance Abuse Counseling Early? Your Local Addiction Treatment Center Explains

Reducing Risks

Drugs of all kinds alter the neurological makeup of the brain, which may impact children’s decision-making processes down the road. Studies show it also impacts one’s memory, learning ability, and behavior control. By preventing initial exposure, adults can greatly improve children’s chances of leading healthy, addiction-free lives later on in life. 

Raising Awareness

Discussing drugs and alcohol with your children early on will help them make educated decisions down the road. Rather than threaten your children, explain the relevant health risks and immense repercussions that come with drug use, including pain and illness, poor sports and academic performance, and career and family life difficulties. By emphasizing facts, your child will possess the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions in the future.

Building Trust

Let your child know that you’re always available to talk about anything life may bring, and your priority is their physical and emotional well-being. By fostering an attitude of acceptance and compassion today, you can help your child feel comfortable broaching difficult subjects later on in life. When they first observe or even try drugs, they may come to you first.  

If you suspect that your child has used or been exposed to drugs or alcohol, talk to the caring professionals from Northern Kentucky’s trusted mental health and addiction treatment center. With locations throughout Northern Kentucky, the team offers mental health and substance abuse counseling services that help people of all ages receive the support they need to stay healthy, happy, and drug-free for life. To learn more about mental health and addiction treatment services, visit NorthKey’s website or call (859) 331-3292.