If you are a parent struggling to keep your child from abusing illicit substances, it can sometimes feel like you have little to no influence on your son or daughter’s decisions. After all, for every talk you have about the perils of drug use, your child may have countless peers who brag about the pills they scored, not to mention the glorified images of narcotic consumption that they see on screen in TV shows and movies.
While it is definitely unfortunate that movies stars, singers and athletes carry so much sway, particularly among younger generations, occasionally that influence can be of use. If your teen will not heed your warnings regarding the realities of drug abuse, for example, they may be more receptive if this information comes from a figure they idolize.
According to a recent piece in the Boston Globe, one former NBA player intends to use his stature to do just that. Chris Herren, who used to play for the Boston Celtics, is reportedly holding an informational session for Massachusetts teenagers this week. After rising from high school basketball star to professional athlete, Herrin ultimately fell from grace within the NBA because of his drug abuse. Now, he has dedicated himself to alleviating some of the judgment directed toward addicts and preventing teens from following in his footsteps.
“Through his non-profit organization, The Herren Project, he works to educate youth and at-risk populations on the importance of a healthy lifestyle and provide techniques to handle pressure within their lives, their community or their family situation,” the source states.
Herren’s willingness to discuss his drug-addled past, despite the stigma cast upon addicts, is an inspiration, and will hopefully make aspiring athletes and other teens reconsider their stance on recreational drug use. However, if your child has already succumbed to such an addiction, they may require youth intervention services to get back on track. Consider hiring a professional interventionist to help you tackle this weighty issue.