Sanchez: National Prevention Week: Be the Trusted Voice for Our Kids 

Just try it! That was a request I often dodged as early as middle school. I didn’t talk to my parents, teachers, or any adult about the pressure to use because I didn’t see how I could possibly start a conversation without it leading to friends or myself getting into trouble.  

Considering the advancements in technology and social media, I recognize the increased pressures our kids face today. This amplifies our need to be the trusted voice for our kids. To accomplish this and maintain their trust requires adults to be consistent communicators. 

As a social worker with over two decades of experience in behavioral health prevention, creating opportunities for kids to talk about how they feel and what they’re facing continues to be pivotal in preventing substance use and supporting their mental wellness. But it is challenging, and takes time to maintain consistency.

The Prevention Resource Center Region 11 conducted a regional needs assessment for the southernmost counties in Texas and noted, “As drugs are smuggled through the area [RGV, Laredo], our communities have also faced an increase in overdose incidents linked to fentanyl. In the past year, communities faced increased challenges related to staying informed of the fast changes in how drugs are masked and marketed to youth and adults.”

In practice, we have seen young people vaping nicotine as early as 10 years of age and unknowingly using cartridges with THC or fentanyl. The early age of use is alarming but often unacknowledged due to the associated fears of not knowing how to handle the situation. According to the 2022 Texas School Survey, kids surveyed in south Texas reported first consuming alcohol and tobacco at 13 years old and marijuana at the age of 14. 

The idea that your young child could be using adult substances is terrifying. I understand how difficult it is to ask children questions that may have a response we do not want or feel prepared for. I can still feel the emotional gut punch I felt when I posed difficult questions to my loved ones, and the fear of not knowing what to do if the response wasn’t what I hoped for.

For the most part, my asking difficult questions has led to stronger relationships. When asking led to unpacking hurt, the anxiety and frustration brought to the surface allowed for us to clarify and compromise. In asking about kids’ lives, we open the door to providing support that is timely and impactful. We also model for our children how they can bring up difficult questions and the importance of sharing even the scariest situations. It further reinforces that they are not alone.

In my job, part of the coping skills development we focus on includes practice for parents and adults with navigating difficult situations – I am grateful that many caregivers have shared how impactful this is for them.

One parent shared “The skills we have gained after the sessions have not just helped us cope with everyday situations, but are skills we will take with us for a lifetime. I have seen my son’s confidence go up, and watched him grow as a person.”

In recognition of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)’s National Prevention Week, I encourage adults who parent, work with, or support young people to take time to check-in and do so consistently. To start this practice, find opportunities that allow for privacy such as the drive to or from school, taking a walk, or setting up a time on the weekend. 

Set your cell phone aside and ask that the young person does the same. Let them know that for the next five to ten minutes, you want to just check-in with them and will not be shifting your attention to anything else. Ask that they do the same. Any open-ended question can start your check-in, such as “What happened during your week that was funny or fun?”

As you listen, pay attention to the details shared and do your best not to interrupt. Continue to ask open-ended questions as it will lead to difficult topics. Remember, you are checking in to gain an understanding of where they are and how they would prefer you support them. Start asking, listening, and be the trusted voice for your kids.  

Editor’s Note: The above guest column was penned by Monica Hernandez Sanchez, LCSW-S, ACPS, PSS, chief executive officer for Behavioral Health Solutions of South Texas. The column appears in the Rio Grande Guardian with the permission of the author. 

More About Monica Hernandez Sanchez

Monica Hernandez Sanchez is a data driven strategist developing a spectrum of care for individuals, families, and communities impacted by behavioral health-related complexities. She is the Chief Executive Officer for Behavioral Health Solutions of South Texas and in her role leads the organization in its mission to foster a culture of behavioral wellness by providing age-appropriate, consumer-driven, and evidence-based services.

The post Sanchez: National Prevention Week: Be the Trusted Voice for Our Kids  appeared first on Rio Grande Guardian.