I really liked this post. It got me thinking of something in a slightly different context, which is the impact of culture on how a parent reacts to their child’s problems. Coming from an Indian background, I’m familiar with how certain mental conditions can unfortunately be considered taboo areas. Hence if a child is suffering from a condition, some families may just deny anything is wrong, or may not want to talk about it, for fear it will bring ‘shame’ on the family.

I’m wondering if addictions within certain cultures and communities might also make parents behave In certain ways.
Hiten Vyas recently posted..Meditation session at Positive Provocations

Our early environment does influence our lives in so many ways. Parents can make all the difference by being role models, talking often to their children about the dangers of drug abuse, and helping their child explore their interests and talents to build their self confidence. Parents do the best that they can and it is never perfect. They can make a big difference in their children’s lives, and have much more influence over their children even in the teen years, then they often believe.
Cathy recently posted..Ten Things Addiction has Taught Me

So true, so true. This problem has transcended several generations. Everyone who experiments with marijuana does not necessarily later become addicted to harder drugs, but everyone who is addicted to drugs like heroin and crystal meth ALL have smoked marijuana. Smoking cigarettes, interestingly enough, is also a gateway drug.
Cathy recently posted..Are You a Parent that Needs to Let Go of Denial and Enabling?

This topic is important for all parents of teens whether they are struggling with drug abuse or have other issues. The idea of the helicopter parent is so interesting to me. I believe this is done out of kindness and love, but is not helpful in the long run for the child. To be strong, adult children need to feel confident that they can rely on themselves for the answers.
Cathy recently posted..Ten Things Addiction has Taught Me

The more informed parents can be during these critical year, the more helpful they can be to their children.
Thanks for stopping by.
Cathy recently posted..Let Go of Your Bad Habits and Find Your Passion

This issue does affect us all in one way or another. Parents feel shame when their children have issues in life and feel that it reflects on them as a parent and as a person. When we realize that most people have challenges with their teen in some form, it makes us realize that we are not alone.
Cathy recently posted..Zen Mama: Letting Go Leads to Happiness

Raising children can be one of the most gratifying experiences in life. The teen years are challenging for most families. The majority of teens do get through these years and go on to live successful lives. My hope is that everyone can get through the teen years without being sidetracked with drugs or alcohol. Thanks for sharing the post!
Cathy recently posted..Ten Things Addiction has Taught Me