What adults don’t know
I’ve made the assumption in the past that kids’ experiences online are the same as adults. How wrong I was. Kids are targeted online in ways that adult aren’t. Kids may also search for content that would never cross an adult’s mind as an option. How many adults are aware that kids can find, purchase, and have drugs delivered through Snapchat or Instagram? How many parents would suspect their 13 year old, 12 year old, or even 10 year old might come across, and engage with that content?
“Buying Drugs over Snapchat – High Society” is a video, produced by Vice, that shows just how easy it is for kids to connect with drug dealers online. Although the video documents the problem in the UK, issues like these also exist on this side of the pond.
Keep the lines of communication open
What can we do about it?
After seeing this video the first thing I did was talk to my kids. Without open communication in the home kids are at higher risk of making decisions with no understanding of the associated risks.
Take a closer look
We can also inform ourselves. Some drugs are intentionally made to look like candy or puzzle pieces. They could literally be out in the open without adults realizing what they’re seeing. Be mindful. Pause, and take a closer look.
You can also visit the Talk To Frank website. Educate yourself on current substances, what they may look like, and the associated risks for both kids and adults.
Educate yourself
The next two weeks for us is all about equipping adults to understand the unique risks kids face, and how to support their safety. Starting with a private Mental Health First Aid course for Adults Interacting with Youth ages 12-24, which will be delivered to social work students at a college in Toronto.
One of the many topics covered in this workshop are tips on how to open communication with kids about serious topics, like substance use.
To register for one of our upcoming workshops click here, or message us for more info.
Watch the video
Ignorance is not bliss for parents who have been impacted by the infiltration of drugs and other damaging content that has entered the home unsuspected. Take 15 minutes to watch the Vice video. Better understand the challenges your child may be growing up with. And then, talk about it.