There is no single magic solution for preventing problems with alcohol and
other drugs. However, we have learned some important lessons that can help us
prevent abuse.
For example, we know that a person's income level, social status and health
are linked with their ability to deal with life's stresses without alcohol or
drugs. People are more likely to be healthier and to feel more control over
their life if they have:
- an education
- a stable job
- enough money for a healthy diet
- a secure place to live.
Also, the older someone is when they use alcohol or drugs for the first time,
the less likely they are to have problems with alcohol or drugs later in life.
Protective factors
'Protective factors' are factors can help decrease someone's chance of problems
with alcohol or drugs later in life and can boost the ability to cope well with
adversity or risk. Protective factors can also help delay the age that someone
starts to drink or use drugs. Some examples of protective factors include:
- a supportive family atmosphere
- good parenting
- problem-solving skills
- social skills
- a sense of purpose in life
- hope for the future
- control over one's life.
There are community-based protective factors as well. For example, young people
do better if they can:
- take part in things in a meaningful way
- feel like they belong
- have access to relevant activities that they can afford.
Additional resources
Keeping Kids Addiction Free –
Alberta Alcohol and Drug Commission
Keeping Your Kids Drug Free: A How-to Guide for Parents and Caregivers
–
Alcohol and Drug Information
References
Hamilton, Nancy and Bhatti, Tariq.
Population Health Promotion: An
Integrated Model of Population Health and Health Promotion. Ottawa:
Health Canada, 1996.
Preventing Drug Use Among Children and Adolescents: A Research-Based
Guide for Parents, Educators and Community Leaders. Second Edition.
Rockville, MD: United States National Institute on Drug Abuse. (1997,Revised
2003).
Preventing Substance Use Problems Among Young People - A Compendium of Best
Practices. Health Canada. 2001
Youth Risk and Protective Factors. Alberta Alcohol and Drug Commission
of Alberta. 2003
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