In the ongoing battle against drug abuse in Singapore, moms are unsung heroes, playing a crucial role in shielding their children from the dark clutches of substance misuse. Let's dive into the story of Ms. Elaine Loo, a passionate Council Member of the National Council Against Drug Abuse (NCADA), as she shares her personal insights and experiences related to drug abuse.
In this article, we'll chat about her journey, the hurdles moms face, and the invaluable work of NCADA in supporting these all-important conversations.
A Personal Journey
Elaine's journey into the realm of drug abuse awareness began with a heart-wrenching twist. A decade ago, she tragically lost her cousin to heroin addiction. Witnessing a beloved family member's agonizing struggle left an indelible mark on her. Her role at the National Council of Social Service introduced her to the stark realities of youth drug abuse in Singapore. These experiences ignited her passion to steer young people away from drug abuse and led her to become actively involved with NCADA.
Alarming Trends from a Recent Survey
Elaine highlights some eye-opening findings from the 2022 Health and Lifestyle Survey. It reveals that drug abuse in Singapore often kicks off surprisingly early, with kids starting at just 15.9 years old on average. Cannabis, often glorified in global pop culture, emerges as the most commonly abused drug among young individuals. Even more concerning is that drug use often takes place within homes, either the abuser's own or at their friends' places.
Vulnerable Youths and Drug Influences
The survey also underscores the power of curiosity, with one in five drug abusers citing it as their reason for experimenting with drugs. The abundance of pro-drug content on social media compounds the vulnerability of today's youth.
"We need to recognise that youths today are more vulnerable to the influence of drugs, as drug-related content is more prevalent and easily accessible today. Pro-drug narratives are particularly rampant on social media, circulated by groups and influencers advocating for the legalisation and decriminalisation of drugs" she mentioned. With mixed messages about drugs, from Singapore's anti-drug campaigns to pro-drug content online, it's a tricky landscape for young people to navigate.
The Influence of Mothers
Elaine emphasized the crucial role both mothers and fathers play in shaping their children's views on drug abuse. Fathers often provide guidance through exploration and discipline, while mothers are pivotal in nurturing their children's social and emotional skills. These skills enable kids to consider others' perspectives and make informed choices.
Early conversations about drug abuse create a safe space for children to engage. Research from NCADA's youth perception survey showed that kids who discuss drug harms with their parents are much less likely to misuse substances.
Navigating Conversation Challenges
Discussing drug abuse isn't a walk in the park. Elaine stresses the importance of approaching these discussions with trust, avoiding a judgmental stance. It's also crucial to understand the pro-drug materials and narratives children might encounter online to have informed and constructive dialogues. "Fathers tend to provide guidance to their children, by showing how kids can learn through exploration, play and discipline. Typically mothers take on a huge role in the development of her child’s social and emotional skills – how to respond by taking others into consideration," Ms. Elaine Loo stated.
Timing Matters
When should these conversations start? Elaine's advice: Early and often. There's no magic age, but she emphasized key milestones. When it comes to discussing drug abuse with your kids, it's essential to tailor the conversation to their age.
Ages 8 - 12
For children aged 8 to 12, begin by asking open-ended questions to gauge their knowledge and perceptions about drugs. Listen actively to what they have to say before explaining why drugs are harmful and what the potential consequences might be. Take advantage of teachable moments, like addressing drug-related scenes on TV, to help them understand why illicit drugs pose risks.
Ages 13 - 16
As your children enter the ages of 13 to 16, they may encounter the influences of drugs and peer pressure. It's crucial to arm yourself with a good understanding of drugs to address their questions based on real-life experiences. Clearly communicate your family's stance against drugs and create an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings about drugs. Encourage open dialogue to foster trust and communication.
Beyond 16 Years Old
Beyond the age of 16, as they approach adulthood, shift the conversation towards the responsibilities that come with growing up. Discuss strategies for handling drug-related influences, particularly in situations like parties, festivals, or overseas exchange programs. If they're heading off to university or entering the workforce, have talks about making responsible choices that won't jeopardize their academic performance, employability, or safety.
These age-appropriate conversations play a crucial role in guiding your children towards informed and responsible decisions regarding drug abuse.
NCADA's Supportive Initiatives
Finally, let's talk about how NCADA is lending a hand. Their media campaign, "What's Your Fix?" and resources like "On The Mend" offer valuable tools for mothers and their children to initiate discussions about drug abuse. "On The Mend" features real-life stories of individuals who overcame addiction, providing powerful insights into the consequences of drug abuse.
"We hope mothers can look out for this campaign and preventive drug education materials their children may bring to their homes, and use these opportunities to start a conversation about drugs, building a mutual understanding between mother and child that the harms of drugs are very real," she added.
Mothers like Elaine Loo are on the front lines of shaping the next generation's attitudes and behaviors regarding drug abuse. Yes, the challenges are real, but with open, proactive conversations and the support of organizations like NCADA, they're making a positive impact in the journey towards a drug-free Singapore.
NCADA
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