My Parents are on Drugs

What do I do: My Parents are on Drugs

1. It is very important to remember that your parents’ decisions have nothing to do with you. You cannot control your parents, and you not responsible for their decisions or their actions. They fact that your parents abuse drugs says something about them, but it does not say anything about you. So don’t believe that you are less of a person, or that you should feel shame or embarrassment because of them.
2. Don’t allow your parents’ drug abuse to be an excuse for them to abuse you or your other family members. If someone abuses drugs and then becomes physically or emotionally abusive they should be held accountable. If you are being abused seek help. Reporting the abuse may actually be the very best thing to draw attention to the drug abuse and for your parents to deal with the issue of accountability.
3. Be aware that you may be more likely to abuse drugs or engage in other risky and dangerous behavior because of your parents’ drug abuse. Commit to staying clean and dealing with your stress in a healthy manner.
4. Find someone that you can talk to about your situation. You are bearing a heavy burden that you should not bear alone. Try to find a trusted adult; someone like a friend’s parent, a counselor, a youth pastor, or a teacher to talk to about what is happening. Even though your parents may have abandoned you by their choices, you do not have to be alone.
5. Don’t make excuses for your parents and don’t tell them that it is okay that they abuse drugs. Their drug abuse is illegal and it is very hurtful to them and to you. Don’t fight with them over this, but don’t allow them to convince you that it is no big deal.
6. Many people find it helpful to keep a journal of their thoughts. During difficult times this can be a very good way to process thoughts and feelings. You might consider this as well.
7. Find positive ways to invest your time. Commit to things that are good for your future. Decide that you will be an excellent student, a productive worker, a caring friend, and a dedicated brother or sister.
8. Don’t write your parents off, or lose hope for them. They can change. Encourage them to seek out help for recovery.
9. Be aware that times of extreme discouragement and disappointment for you will come. Hang in there. If you begin to feel like life is not worth living seek out help. Don’t let the poor decisions of your parents cause you to give up on life.
10. For support and someone to talk to, call the HopeLine (1-800-394-HOPE) or visit www.dmlive.com to chat with a live person.