Times can be tough for teenagers. Between trying to be popular, or at least not being unpopular, and having to deal with school and adolescence and all the baggage that comes with it, it is no wonder that statistics on drug and alcohol abuse among this age range is shocking. To escape the pressures of body changes and cliques, not to mention high expectations placed by parents and other adults, teens may look for a vice. Some may channel frustrations through video games or other activities, while sadly others turn to illegal substances.

Parenting a teen doesn't have to be intimidating. While it may appear that young adults do not wish to listen to boring lectures, they do to some extent crave attention and praise. By making yourself available to your teenager you can set in motion their resistance to drugs, alcohol, and/or cigarettes. Here are a few short examples of how you can achieve this and to keep your children clean.

Preventative Measures

Talk - Like the public service ads tout, talking with your teen is one key to keeping them free of addiction. Let them know the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse, and the consequences of overuse - physical, spiritual, and emotional. Answer questions they may have and, if you are stumped on a few points, consult a professional or other resources yourself. The more you know, the more you can share.

See - Take note of everything your child does. What movies do they like? What music do they listen to? What television shows do they watch? How influenced are they by media images glamorizing drugs and alcohol, and are they aware that what is shown on TV and film may not reflect real life? Make sure your children can discern reality from fantasy in this respect.

Do and Do Not - Children learn by example, and in all likelihood if a child drinks to excess chances are it is because his/her parents did the same. Be mindful of your behavior around your teen. They are apt to emulate you as they grow older.

As parents and guardians, it is important to be aware of what your teens see, do, and say. Listen fully with your ears and your heart in order to instill good behaviors that will carry them into adulthood.