coping with substance

abuse in your family?

substance abuse in your family > children and teens > activities

CREATIVE EXPRESSIONS

Some kids and teens find it helpful to express their feelings about their parents alcohol or other drugs problems creatively. Here are a few suggestions to get you started.

Happy Families/Sad Families

Think about a time when everyone in your family was happy. What was happening? How did you look? How did you feel? Draw a picture of that moment, or write a description of the event.

Now, think about a time when everyone in your family was angry, or sad. What was happening then? How did you feel? Tell what made this picture or description different from the first.

Name your Strength

Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Growing up with a parent with a drug or alcohol problem, you probably have a lot of special strengths. Draw a picture of yourself or write a description that shows the view some of your strengths.

Trusting

Who do you trust most? When you want to share a secret, or tell someone some exciting news, who is it? Why do you trust this person? How has this person helped you in the past?

Get the Mad Out

Have you ever felt really angry? Like punching a pillow just wouldn’t cut it? How do you get the mad out? What makes you that angry? Write or draw what makes you so angry. Then describe how you get the mad out.

Letter writing

Sometimes it helps to share what is bothering you with a friend. One way to share your thoughts is to write a letter. Write a letter to a friend about something that is bothering you now, or that has bothered you in the past.

Having an easier life

It’s hard to live with someone who drinks too much or uses other drugs. What can you do to make life easier for yourself? Make a booklet to share your ideas with a friend. Use pictures and words to make your booklet interesting and helpful.

Friendships

What is special about a friend? What does friendship mean to you? Write a poem to a real or imaginary friend to express your ideas. Remember when you write a poem you should choose your words carefully. But the words don’t have to rhyme. When you finish, think of a title for your poem.

Reflections

Think about how you are feeling right now. Then draw a picture of yourself that reflects your mood. Write a short paragraph that explains why you feel the way you do.

Same/Different

There are probably things you like about yourself and things you don’t like. The same is probably try about your family. Make a list of some things you like about yourself and your family. Then list some things that you wish were different.