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Prevention


Many of those most deeply hurt by alcohol and other drug addiction don't even drink or use drugs...the children.

  • Children from addicted families are at high risk for developing alcoholism and other drug dependence. Effective prevention programs can help families break the multi-generational cycle of addiction.
  • Children affected by alcohol and other drug addiction in the family often believe the addiction is their fault. Many grow up too quickly and miss out on their childhood. They are often filled with confusion, fear, sadness, guilt and shame.
  • For many years the Betty Ford Center Children's Program has been helping kids from all ethnic groups to cope positively with family addiction by teaching them about this disease in an age-appropriate manner. During four intensive days they learn to express their feelings in healthy ways and are taught how to develop problem-solving and self-care skills. They are given many opportunities to simply be kids. Because addiction is a family disease, parents participate actively during two full days of the program.
  • The Children's Program Training Academy provides consultation and technical assistance to agencies, clinicians and other professionals who wish to create children's programs or enhance and strengthen their existing services.

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The Betty Ford Institute conducts and supports collaborative programs of research, prevention and education
that leads to a reduction of the devastating effects on substance use disorders on individuals, families and communities.