Adolescence can be a difficult time in your daughter’s life. She is still developing physically and mentally, and is becoming more and more independent. But even though she may seem like a young adult, she still needs you to set limits and provide guidance.
The high school years can bring overwhelming pressures, which can lead to risky behaviors like smoking, drinking, and drug use. Stress is an important factor.
Parents should know that marijuana is the most used drug among girls. In fact, more teens use marijuana than cocaine, heroin, ecstasy, and all other illicit drugs combined. And girls are catching up or have surpassed boys in other areas, such as alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use in general.
How can you help your daughter grow up healthy and confident?
First, learn how drug and alcohol abuse can negatively affect your daughter’s physical, psychological, and social well-being. Second, spend some time with her daughter to find out what’s going on in her life and learn what’s really stressing her out. Finally, maximize communication, model positive coping skills, encourage your daughter to be more confident, and control her activities.
Adolescence is a time of change and upheaval. This can be a challenging time as she watches her daughter grow up independently, make decisions, and become a young adult. Some risks that are unique to adolescent girls, such as low self-confidence, depression, and early puberty, can lead to drug and alcohol abuse. Even during this difficult time, parents are the most important influence in their children’s lives. You can help your daughter get through this exciting but stressful time. Here are some tips on how to raise healthy, drug-free daughters.