02/09/2025
Why Adults Stay Silent (Even When They See a Teen Struggling)
Sadly, it’s not just teens who keep secrets. Adults often do too.
Even when they notice a teen in trouble — a nephew drinking too much, a student showing warning signs, or a neighbor’s child spiraling — many say nothing. Why?
Fear of overstepping
They don’t want to “interfere in someone else’s parenting” or risk upsetting the family.
Not my child, not my problem
The belief that responsibility stops at your own front door is common, but it leaves struggling kids unsupported.
Avoiding conflict
Telling another parent their child is drinking, using drugs, or showing signs of addiction is uncomfortable and risks straining relationships.
Assuming someone else will handle it
A teacher assumes the parents know. A family member assumes the school knows. Neighbors assume “it’s being dealt with.” And so the silence continues.
Minimizing the issue
Sometimes adults convince themselves it’s “just a phase” or “normal teen behavior,” hoping it will pass.
The cost of silence: Addiction thrives in secrecy. Every adult who looks the other way unintentionally gives it more room to grow.
The shift we need:
If it truly takes a village to raise a child, then it also takes a village to protect one. Speaking up — with care, not judgment — could be the intervention that saves a life.
🎬 Nery Zarate ()
