It is generally pretty easy to tell if your kid is smoking. A dead give away is the odor of cigarettes on their clothing, hair, and belongings. But often times kids will excuse that away by saying it was from a friend who was smoking, or their friends house have parents that smoke. This could be, but it could also be that your teen really is smoking. If your teen testifies that the smoke odor is coming from other sources, yet you continue to smell it on them on a regular basis it is time to do a little investigating on your own. Check your teen’s pockets, backpack, and room for matches, lighters, or cigarettes. Watch for unusual or out of the norm behavior in your teen such as excessive brushing teeth, use of mouthwash, or chewing gum/eating mints. Take notice if your teen begins to make up excuses to take frequent walks or reasons to go outside out of their normal behavior.
If you notice the changes in behavior and find evidence of cigarette use you need to voice your concern to your teen calmly. Take time to compose yourself so you are able to speak with your teen without becoming extremely angry. Pick a time you are doing something together whether it is watching a TV program or driving somewhere and then mere state that you are not 100% sure but have concerns that he/she may be smoking. If your teen denies smoking, don’t push the issue. It will only result in a battle of words. Instead, tell your teen you are concerned about their health and available to talk whenever if they have questions regarding smoking or other substances. If your teen admits to smoking when confronted, try not to blow up. If you know you are not in the position to talk calmly at the time, you can let them know you are upset and that you will discuss it later when you have had a chance to calm down. When you do approach the subject, ask how and why they started smoking and offer support in helping them quit. Statistics say that 78% of teens who smoke want to stop, so the chances of your teen agreeing to the support will be on your side.
Agree upon a quit date together with care to avoid stressful times such as holidays and final exams. Have your teen write down all the reason why they want to quit. These will help motivate your teen on tough days. Talk with your teen about getting positive support from their friends as well in their effort to stop smoking. Talk with your family doctor or the school counselor about any smoking cessation support groups in your area that are teen friendly. Expect slip-ups and help your teen get back on track as quickly as possible. Your family doctor may suggest medications to help your teen quit if support alone is not effective.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
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Neither my husband nor I smoke so I was surprised and disappointed when I found out that my 16 year old son had started. I wasn't angry when I talked to him, but he was. He told me that what he does is none of my business. I suspect that the attitude and the behavior can be blamed on the 2 boys he has been spending time with. I'm hoping it's a passing phase.
ReplyDeleteYes he is even though he denies it. There is the smell of course, but I've seen nicotine stains on his fingers. I guess he thinks I'm too dumb to notice. There is also the pile of butts that has accumulated outside of his window. If he bothered to cut the grass he would see them for himself.
ReplyDeleteNo, and I thank God every day. I started talking to them about cigarettes when they started kindergarten. We talked almost daily about the harm they can do and the expense too. I have 6 children and not one smoker in the bunch. I guess I should knock on wood since any of them could be late starters, but I really think this is one battle I won.
ReplyDeleteI don't have children of my own, but I see so many young people today who are smoking. The warnings are everywhere, the proof of the physical harm is well documented and yet they still start up. I just don't understand.
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