How Can I Be Prepared If My Teenagers Face a Crisis?
It’s important for parents and care givers to understand that harmful issues involving substance abuse or mental health can happen to any kid in any family, so no parent ever wants to say, “We didn’t think it could happen to us.” If you’re facing a crisis, it’s time to take action.
How can you be prepared for bad things that may happen?
Create a “Proactive Emergency Plan” for your kids
Write down a plan to prepare for dangerous situations related to substance abuse, mental health issues, or self-harm. Commit to stop the insanity of “doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.” The “Should You Be Worried?” article below will help.
Take at least one positive step forward today
Sometimes, parents are slow to act out of embarrassment or procrastination. Don’t let emotions interfere with the well-being of your kids. Don’t do nothing; get into motion and take a step. You’ll feel better when you do. Be assured you can help, if you’re willing to do something.
Help avert a potentially deadly fentanyl crisis
Any kid can be tempted to, “Try this pill, it’s no big deal, and you’ll like it.” But any pill or drug can be laced with fentanyl, and a few grains of fentanyl can be fatal, so ensure your kids understand that risk. Write down emergency phone numbers and buy some Naloxone (Google it).
Here are some other useful resources to help you prepare for a crisis:
- Should You Be Worried About Your Teenager’s Safety?
- How Parents Can Prepare for the Teenage Years
- Preventing Addiction in Teenagers
- Doing Nothing is a Decision
Next Right Steps: When your kids struggle, you want to be prepared, so take the time to go through the supporting resources above.
