How To Stop My Teenager From Smoking Marijuana
Marijuana has always been a hot topic. Conflicting messages are present everywhere. Is it good, or is it bad? But one thing is for sure: marijuana addiction is harmful to anyone, especially teens. So if you’re here, you might be asking yourself: How do I stop my teenager from smoking Marijuana, and how do I know if my teen is high?
Learn about Teen Marijuana Treatment in Los Angeles
Teen marijuana addiction has spread like an epidemic in the world, especially in the United States. According to the data presented by the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA), there were 455,000 reported emergency visits because of marijuana use, and 13% of them were young teens aged 12-17.
Undoubtedly, dealing with teen marijuana addiction is difficult for both the child and the parents. When a teen gets addicted, parents often blame themselves. They think they did not do a good job protecting and guiding their child. They might feel guilty, sad, and emotionally traumatized.
However, if you find out that your teen is currently addicted to Marijuana or any other substance, you should not blame yourself or your child. Both of you are victims of a highly addictive drug. Being emotionally stable and finding ways to overcome this issue is your number one priority. If you are here, trying to help your child, then you’re already doing a good job. Take the right decisions to save your teen’s life and dreams.
Signs of Marijuana Addiction or Abuse Among Teens
The warning signs of marijuana use in teens and abuse or addiction vary from person to person. Still, you should watch out for the most common physical and psychological changes. Here are the most common signs of marijuana addiction:
- Redness of the eyes.
- Increased blood pressure.
- Forgets things easily
- Frequent headaches and dizziness.
- Smiling or laughing without reason.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Extreme panic and anxiety attacks.
- Hallucinations.
Recognizing these signs can help in the recovery process of your child. If you think your child is abusing any substance, seek help now.
7 Ways To Stop Your Teenager From Smoking Marijuana
Since marijuana addiction calls for your involvement, you should note these seven ways to stop your teenager from smoking Marijuana.
1) Have Regular Conversations
Marijuana is one of the most used drugs by teens in the United States. Keeping your child aware of this can influence their decisions regarding drugs. Try to make the conversations as natural as possible, in relaxed situations, like having your dinner or watching TV.
Listen to their thoughts about Marijuana, express your opinions, and institute rules to convey a compelling message. At the same time, give your child tips on how to avoid drugs when they are offered. Prevention is always the best solution.
2) Talk About the Risks
Teens might get the wrong idea about Marijuana with the information they get from people or the internet, so you need to correct these misconstructions. For instance, some countries are legalizing Marijuana, but they have to know that something legal does not mean it is safe, especially if it is abused.
There are many risks associated with marijuana use, especially in teens, as it is considered a fast-acting drug that quickly affects a developing brain. Chronic and high doses users of Marijuana can end up having psychosis disorders, like schizophrenia or other mental health issues. Moreover, it can also disrupt cognitive functions, affect learning and socializing skills, and lead to behavioral changes, all of which can have severe consequences.
3) Debunk Marijuana Myths
Misconceptions about Marijuana are rampant. A teen with the wrong information might get a false sense of feeling of security. Consider debunking the following myths.
- Myth: “Marijuana is not bad. It is natural.”
- Truth: Not everything natural is good, like tobacco or oleander, for example. They are all-natural plants, but they can take someone’s life.
- Myth: “Marijuana is not addictive.”
- Truth: All substances that are capable of affecting the human brain are addictive. Marijuana users eventually need to take higher doses to achieve the same “high,” which leads to addiction.
- Myth: “Marijuana is safe to use since it is being legalized.”
- Truth: Prescription drugs and alcohol are legal, but they are not safe when used without moderation or proper guidance. Over a million people have developed disorders due to marijuana addiction.
4) Keep Yourself Involved in Their Lives
The parents’ presence in the endeavors of their children is essential. Studies suggest that the involvement and guidance of parents can help their teens not to try drugs or stop using addictive substances like Marijuana.
Spend time with your child, join them in doing the things they love, talk to them, connect with them. Make them feel that you are available every day. Building a solid relationship with your child helps them find peace, attain self-worth, and make healthy decisions.
If you value the things they love to do, their school performance, and their behavior in society, they will learn how to be grateful.
While you can guide them to make good life choices, note that it is beneficial to balance being engaged and letting them have their freedom so they don’t feel suffocated. You would not want them to rebel and break the bond between parent and child.
5) Know Their Social Circle
Friendship involves feelings, time, interest, and bonds, which contribute to emotional and social development. Your teen’s friends have a great influence on their growth as individuals and their decision-making. They might even spend more time hanging out with their friends than with their relatives. Knowing their social circle will help you understand more about your child.
While you cannot choose their peers, you can tell them what makes someone a good friend. In addition, you can let them invite their friends to your home, prepare some snacks, and have short conversations to get to know them little by little.
6) Establish Rules and Limits
The non-negotiables between you and your child must be explained clearly and implemented consistently. Establishing your rules and limits reinforces the fact that you care for them. It shows that you are involved in their safety. Here are some rules you can implement:
- “Don’t drink alcohol until you turn 21.”
- “You must tell me the address of where you are going to hang out.”
- “Give me a heads-up about the parties you want to go to, at least 1-2 days before the event.”
- “You have to give me the contact details of your friends, so I can get in touch with them if something happens.”
- “Charge your phone every time you leave the house and make sure it is on.”
- “Send me a message in our code in case you need help.”
7) Participate in Community-Based Prevention Programs
Like we said before, prevention is the best solution. There are numerous prevention programs in America, and joining them will give you and your teen important information about drug abuse.
Participating in this kind of activity will affect the life decisions of your teen, especially at their young age, where curiosity is at its peak. Early prevention saves a lot of time, finances, and lives. This will also be a great time to strengthen your bond with your child.
How To Stop My Teenager From Smoking Marijuana: More Tips for Parents
Consider your Parenting Style
Every generation is different. Everything is constantly changing, so it stands to reason that your parenting should suit your child’s modern needs. A harsh parenting style might push kids to try drugs like Marijuana and rebel against their parents. Keep in mind that everyone is capable of change, and so are you.
Start the Conversation Early
Studies show that when parents and children are communicative, they address their problems faster, and the chances of drug addiction are very low. While talking about sensitive topics like Marijuana, drugs, alcohol, sex, and feelings might sound awkward, it can prevent your teen from committing a fatal mistake. Make sure to avoid yelling since that could affect the mental and emotional aspects of your child. It is best to start having regular talks as early and as naturally as possible.
Improve their Spiritual Aspects
Building the spiritual aspects of your child might help them make healthy decisions in life. Several types of research suggest that children who participate in religious activities are less likely to try drugs or have addiction problems. This could also let them express themselves with more ease if they are struggling with other issues.
The number of teens using marijuana, alcohol, and drugs is on the rise these days. We all want these children to recover and get back on track. Sometimes, Marijuana or other teen drug addictions are serious, and parents cannot solve them on their own. Teen drug rehab is often necessary. If you think that you or your child needs help, do not hesitate to contact us for assistance. The best time to act is now.
