So, what can you do if you have a student with addictive behavior? Obviously, you can’t just fix the problem. They are their own persons and must choose to climb out of the addiction themselves. However, there are some ways you can lead them on this journey to freedom:
1. Address the Problem.
You must acknowledge what’s going on. Denial can damage all parties involved. It’s hard and messy, but the first job of the leader (i.e. parent, teacher, coach) is to define reality. Remember Rule #1 in Alcoholics Anonymous is: Admit you have a problem.
2. Apply Discipline not Punishment
The difference between the two, of course is this: punishment looks backward at the fault and reacts in anger; discipline looks forward and acts redemptively. Students with addictive behavior don’t need more punishment; they do need discipline.
2. Build Healthy Esteem
By healthy esteem, I mean affirming good qualities your teens exhibit on the inside, such as courage or honesty. Only affirm what is true and help them build their self-esteem on reality not on flattery or exaggerated claims like: “You’re awesome!”
3. Get Accountability and Support Yourself.
Don’t enter this journey of helping a kid out of addictive behavior without sources of encouragement and accountability for yourself. Both you and your teen need this support if you’re going to stay healthy and strong in route to freedom.
4. Demonstrate Firm Leadership
You’ll likely need to tighten the reigns in your leadership as a parent or teacher. Anyone who’s addicted to something becomes brilliant at sweet talking others into believing they’re fine or persuading people they can be trusted with freedom.
5. Communicate Constantly and Transparently
During the intervention time, it is almost impossible to over-communicate. Talk a lot to your student with addictions as well as your doctor, counselor and any other party involved. Keep the lines open and model honest disclosure and transparency.
6. Find the Right Counselor.
Identifying the right counselor is paramount. There are good ones and bad ones practicing today. Find a counselor that sees the big picture, actually displays concern for your student and who can be both tough and tender in your sessions together.
