Dear Joseph,
Social distancing measures and anxiety about COVID-19 are presenting unique challenges for families, especially those concerned about substance use. To help you and your family, we’ve developed
unique resources to support you as you care for your loved ones and support their health and well-being.
Today I’m sharing two new articles, written by our experts with a particular emphasis on preventing risky substance use among teens and young adults during COVID-19. We hope you find their tips and suggestions helpful.
If there’s one thing we know, it’s that solutions lie in connection. Everyone is doing their best right now, and we will continue to do our best to serve you and all families impacted by addiction.
Sincerely,
Fred Muench, PhD
President of Center on Addiction + Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
P.S. Help us prepare for increased need among parents and caregivers. We are taking proactive steps throughout COVID-19 to protect the families who rely on us. Please consider
making a donation today to ensure we can continue providing remote support offerings and timely, expert guidance to the families in greatest need.
In a Time of Disruption, Protecting Your Child from the Risks of Substance Use
For those with preteens, teens or young adults in the home, your best-laid plans for supporting their healthy development can be thrown off course or strengthened during this time. What can parents and other caregivers do to reduce the potential that children who are understandably feeling frustrated, anxious, bored, depressed or isolated might engage in substance use as a distraction or to self-medicate?
Welcoming An Adult Child Back Home Because of COVID-19
Many parents and caregivers are now finding adult-aged children unexpectedly back at home. And not just home, but in the house, 24/7. You’re likely experiencing a variety of emotions — happy and thankful that your child is healthy, safe and back at home, or perhaps, concerned about how your family will manage with everyone under one roof. How long this will last and what will the academic, financial or health outcomes be?
We recommend having a conversation with your child about how you (and anyone else in your home) will live together. Talk about what you expect from one another.
