The Legacy of Cory Monteith

The hit TV show “Glee” regularly depicts real-world issues within the confines of William McKinley High School. The episodes only pale in comparison to the recent death of star Cory Monteith.

The actor passed away this past July at age 31 due to a toxic combination of alcohol and heroin, according to the Canadian coroner’s report.

On “Glee”, Cory played a singer/clean-cut quarterback on his way to college. However, the actor was quick to let fans know just how different his own story really was.

Cory freely discussed details of his past with the press: drinking and drug use at age 13, high school drop out and stealing to account for the next high. Following an intervention from family and friends, Cory decided to seek help for his drug addiction at age 19.

Over time, Cory was able to clean himself up, begin acting, and in 2009, shot to stardom with the cast of “Glee”. By all accounts, Cory was a beautiful individual inside and out.

However, like many recovering addicts, Cory struggled with sobriety. Reports confirm that the actor voluntarily re-entered a rehabilitation facility in March of this year, successfully completing a 30-day program. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t enough.

Cory’s death is but another reminder of the perils associated with drug and alcohol abuse. Athlete or artist, poor or rich, old or young, struggling or successful – nobody is safe.

When one star overdoses, fans mourn by the millions. The sad fact is that drug and alcohol abuse takes hundreds of thousands of wonderful people each year, with little to no attention from the general public.

It’s important to view Cory’s struggle as an example for families to follow. His addiction and demise do not make him a hypocrite. They make him a human being.

Surely, Cory Monteith would prefer that his fans and friends do more than mourn another celebrity death. When “Glee” returns to living rooms this coming season, the producers will likely pay tribute. They may even present a story to help fans avoid the same pitfalls.

Here’s hoping that Cory’s story motivates each of us to take a stand for the generations to come. 

Effects of Parental Drug Abuse on Kids & Teens

Families work to guide children in social roles and etiquette. When a parent who is supposed to nurture a family becomes emotionally and physically removed, the children are affected in a variety of behavioral, emotional and social ways. In this entry, we will discuss the effects of parental drug abuse on children and teens. 

Health

The effects of addiction and drug use can begin in the womb. Prenatal exposure to drugs is often associated with an array of developmental disorders, miscarriage, infant death, learning disabilities, premature birth, and a number of psychological and metal issues in the effected child.

Development

Drug abuse in parents serves to hinder growth in effected children. Disruptive attitudes, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and behavioral problems are all quite common. Traumatic incidents caused by addicted parents may lead to emotional, social and behavioral development issues. Children may begin alienating themselves from both peers and parents, causing difficulties in social situations later in life.

Relationships

Parents must set a good example for their children in regard to drug and alcohol abuse. Addicted parents often fail to provide proper nurturing to their children due to excess stress, family conflicts and a lack of guidance.

As with any relationship, communication between parent and child is vital to reciprocal respect and understanding between both parties. Many kids and teens experience difficulty maintaining honest and transparent relationships with addicted parents, causing only heartache and resentment in later life.

Academics

Kids with addicted parents often lose academic motivation. Grades may plummet, behaviors may tank, and the trouble may loom. A lack of guidance and/or involvement from the parents can result in psychological issues affecting academic performance.

Confusion and insecurity are also common in children with addicted parents. Many feel threatened or frightened by the behaviors exemplified by those who should be setting the example. As such, many children end up working well below their potential.

If somebody you love is struggling with a drug addiction, Above It All treatment center is the place to call. Pick up the phone today, and let our team of addiction specialists help your family back on track towards the healthy, happy life you deserve.