Faithful Promises – Fall 2020-1
We promise to help youth struggling with substance abuse amidst new pressures.
“God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” Corinthians 10:13
In this closeup, a teenage boy sits in a group therapy session next to his attentive mother. She smiles as he talks to the group.
Jordan has struggled with anxiety and depression for almost two years. His symptoms started when he was just 13, and he used alcohol in an attempt to numb these feelings. Jordan began drinking regularly, and toward the end of this eighth-grade year, he was caught drinking and using a vape pen during class. His parents did not know how to address his quiet pleas for help, so they turned to LFCS for support.
Jordan reluctantly met with a LFCS counselor during the suspension period for his alcohol use. He talked a lot about his friends and casually mentioned a few poor choices they made together. Over several meetings, Jordan started to open up more about his feelings, and he connected specific situations when his feelings led him to make those negative choices. Through the process, he began developing coping techniques and stress management skills to control negative feelings in a more healthy way. He was quickly becoming more independent in his thoughts and actions.
The time came for Jordan to return to school, and he and his parents were excited for him to return with a fresh perspective and independence. However, a few days prior to his first day back, the school announced its closure in response to the pandemic. With little time remaining in the year, his middle school years had abruptly ended.
The following weeks were difficult. Like most, he and his family tried to adjust to at-home schooling and working from home, but the scenario triggered new stressors for Jordan. He felt trapped and began to regress from his feelings of strength and independence. He and his parents recognized his lapse and returned to LFCS for help.
Over the next several months, Jordan worked with an LFCS counselor on improving coping and stress tolerance skills. LFCS has also connected him with a community psychiatrist for additional care. Jordan is focused on repairing his relationship with his parents as well. With LFCS support, he has started to communicate with them without anger. The family has developed healthy activities to do together, which has helped Jordan’s progress tremendously during the pandemic.
Jordan continues to set new goals for himself during bi-weekly meetings with LFCS. He knows there is more to achieve, but he is proud of the progress he’s made, including no longer having a desire or urge to use alcohol.