DEEP

World Health Organization defines drug addiction as follows: “Drug addiction is the state of periodic or chronic intoxication detrimental to the individual and to society, produced by the repeated consumption of a drug (natural or synthetic). Its characteristics include (1) an overpowering desire or need (compulsion) to continue taking the drug and to obtain it by any means (2) a tendency to increase the dosage, and (3) a psychic (psychological) and sometimes physical dependence on the effects of the drug.” This is emerging as a challenge that requires immediate attention and policy intervention from Indian government.  Young generation is the premise to build future of the nation and if current generation is deeply immersed with such addiction, nation will be deprived of productive human resources in the future.  Teens who abuse drugs may have a greater risk of developing an addiction when they grow adults. Drugs have a more drastic effect on chi...

Usually Parents ask me this question when we discuss about having rules and discipline in their Child's life; "Will rules make my Child rebel?” My answer to this question is NO Rules are one way to let your Child know you care. Many kids admit that when their parents are ‘strict’, it’s “for their own good.” Most grown up  kids appreciate having rules even when they protest your rules and authority.  Key to place rules is " Have Rules that Make Sense" It's important to understand which all rules shall be placed and how these shall be placed. Categorize rules in two parts; Firm Rules Flexible Rules FIRM RULES   Some rules are firm and not to be changed whether your Child agrees with them or not. These rules are understood by both parents and Child.  Use firm rules when: Physical or Emotional Health and Safety is at stake The Family’s Values are at stake FLEXIBLE RULES   Some rules are open for discussion and...

Our teens are looking for a place to hang out. Be a good sport about it. Have some healthy snacks around for them, let them play their music and make yourself available. You'll be surprised how many of their friends might need a listening ear. If this makes you really uncomfortable, it's your house and you have the right to enforce your rules. HOWEVER, be aware that this won't help the situation in any way. It WILL make them feel that you do not trust or respect them. Open communication is always a better approach.

Treat your child with honor and respect at all times. Constantly screaming at a child will damage their emotions and cause them to be insecure as adults. No one (including yourself), likes to be belittled. Discipline yourself to never belittle, mock or talk-down to your child. Respect their opinions and ask for them. When it's just the two of you riding in the car, turn the radio to their favorite station. If they like sports, go out of your way to get them involved and go to their games. If they are musical, pay for lessons and go to their recitals. If they win any awards, make a big deal out of it and take the whole family out to dinner in their honor. These are easy, fun things you can do for your teen that will cement a life-long healthy relationship between the two of you

At this crucial time in their lives, they're looking for someone to understand what they're going through. We all need understanding, but your teenager needs it a lot more than you can possibly imagine and he/she needs it to come from you. When they come home, stop what you're doing (no matter how important you think it is) and give them your undivided attention. Look them in the eye, discipline yourself to stay focused on them and what they're saying not  on what you're going to say, and guard your response to them. It's often been said that people need others just to listen. They generally don't need you to fix their problems for them (they'll figure that out for themselves), but rather they need someone who'll listen and empathize with them. This is what your teen needs from you. And if you don't give this to them, believe me, they'll find someone who will.

Teenagers deal with fear as a constant companion. Fear of the other kids, fear of fitting in, fear of their teachers, fear of being mocked or ridiculed...they don't need their parents adding to it. When they come home, their home should be their sanctuary away from these fears. A place where they feel safe and protected, where they find love and acceptance. When your child walks into a room, your countenance should light up with happiness to see them. Not with a jaded eye and questions of where they've been and what they've been up to. Unconditional love and acceptance is the greatest gift you can give them. One that will not only boost their confidence to face another day, but will also steer your relationship with them in a positive direction.