Normal parenting techniques are often ineffective with these children as well. Youth drug and alcohol problems create major stress within the family. Often parents are the last to know that their child has a problem abusing chemicals. Teach coping skills . Life is full of challenges and it is coping skills that help us get through these challenges.
Families can learn coping skills together.
Children with good coping skills handle difficulties better. Coping skills include learning how to have peace of mind, forgiving others, prayer, relaxation, imagery and problem solving skills. When things get difficult, we often forget what has worked in the past. We have a tendency to repeat mistakes we made the last time. A success journal is a diary of techniques that worked with your child in the past.