Summary

  • Substance abuse refers to the use of substances in ways other than the use for which they were intended and in a way that could cause harm. Substances most commonly abused include drugs, inhalants, and alcohol. Substance abuse also refers to the use of illegal drugs, such as cocaine and marijuana.
  • Substance abuse can harm individuals physically and emotionally. The behaviour of substance abusers is harmful to families and society.
  • Children and young people may abuse substances for a number of reasons: to reduce stress, to feel good, to satisfy their curiosity, to feel they are grown up, and to fit in. Young people who live in stressful circumstances or have limited opportunities may be more vulnerable to substance abuse.
  • There are a number of types of behaviour that could indicate substance abuse. It is important to notice any drastic changes in behaviour early.
  • There are a number of ways that we can guide in a positive direction child’s thoughts and attitudes toward substance abuse.
  • One of the most important ways to help children not to abuse substances is to set a good example.
  • It is important that we are aware of our own experiences, beliefs, and values regarding substance abuse if we are going to be effective in counseling children and young people.
  • Children and young people who are busy with interesting activities are less likely to be drawn into substance abuse. When you are planning events for them, there are steps you can take to make sure the events are free of drugs and alcohol.
  • If a young person is addicted to a substance, the problem may be too much for you to handle alone. It is important to know the resources that exist in your community for help with substance abuse.
Self-assessment exercise

Question 1
What do we mean by substance abuse?
Question 2
List at least three long-term effects of using inhalants such as glue, paint thinner, and petrol.
Question 3
One of the young people  you are working with has become very moody and unpredictable. He has also started neglecting his appearance. You wonder if he might be abusing substances. List at least five other signs that could indicate that he is engaged in substance abuse.
Question 4
Your sister (or daughter) has just had her first baby, a little boy. She comes to you to ask for advice about how to raise a child who will not become involved in substance abuse. What will you tell her?
Question 5
You have considerable evidence that a child you know has been abusing alcohol. You decide to talk with her. You know that you will need to stay calm, tell her what you have noticed that makes you suspect alcohol abuse, and listen to what she has to say. What types of behaviour should you avoid while you are talking with her?
Question 6
You decide to plan an event for the young people in your group and you want to ensure that it is substance-free. List at least three things you will need to remember to do.

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Glossary

Addiction: A compulsive physiological and psychological need for a habit-forming substance.
Hallucination: The perception that one sees an object that is not there.
Inhalants: Substances that are sniffed to intoxicate the user immediately, such as petrol, glue, and paint thinner.
Substance abuse: The misuse of substances that may have legitimate uses but can cause harm when misused; for example, drugs, alcohol, or glue.