Denver Catholic

17 DENVER CATHOLIC | APRIL 8-21, 2017 SERVING THE DENVER CATHOLIC COMMUNITY SINCE 1890. The heritage behind our mortuaries and cemeteries is one of history and tradition. For more than a century, Catholic families have trusted Olinger Mortuaries and Cemeteries to care for their loved ones because respect for traditions, understanding the needs of the Catholic faith, and providing affordable options is at the heart of what we do. With more than a 132 years of combined experience, parishioners Harry Stevenson, Matt Whaley, Lloyd Swint and John Chalupa have assisted families with care and compassion. Their expertise combined with those who provide professional services in 11 Olinger neighborhood chapels is virtually unprecedented in serving the Denver Catholic community. (303) 455-3663 www.denverfuneralproviders.com Harry Stevenson 54 Years Matt Whaley 29 Years Lloyd Swint 13 Years John Chalupa 36 Years WITH YOUR KIDS With children, the conversation is best had early on, and often, according to McAneney. "This is one of those things that there isn't a formula, but by not talking to them about porn, it is not doing them any favors," McAneney said. "Chances are good that they've already seen it or heard about it, or they will see it or hear about it. It's important for parents to be the first point of contact." While there are various filters for devices that can help, the most helpful thing is to take the time to talk and ask them what they already know or have seen, "even if it's uncomfortable." "Kids are mortified to tell parents — same thing, remove shame as much as possible, educate them on the harmful e•ects, and getting resources to help. There are a lot of therapists willing to help younger kids," McAneney said. "The porn industry is smart, and they know if they get them hooked early, they'll probably have them for life." It's also important for parents to understand that there's nothing wrong with your child and that they're not the only one struggling, McAneney added. THERE'S ALWAYS HOPE While these can be di®cult con- versations, ultimately, they're worth it, because the addiction can and has been overcome. "We have chemicals that tell our brains to come back to things because they were fun, and the same thing hap- pens with porn. But it works in the same way to reverse it," McAneney said. "Hon- estly, it's di•erent [for how long that takes] for every person, but we always recommend jumping back into hobbies, that give you the same good feelings." McAneney equated the worldwide public health issue that is porn to ciga- rettes — how for a time, it was culturally acceptable and even thought of as good, and when the harmful e•ects were dis- covered, the goal was to change the con- versation about it from acceptable to harmful to health. "The goal is to normalize that it's healthier not to be addicted, and nor- malize that both men and women strug- gle with it." For more information on Fight the New Drug, visit fightthenewdrug.org. For more resources on overcoming por- nography, see page 15. Child abuse isn't always easy to spot. But now it's easier to stop. 1-844-CO-4-KIDS 1-844-264-5437 You Dial the Number. We'll Make the Call. Your confidential, toll-free call can protect a child and help a family. In an emergency, call 911. You Dial the Number. We'll Make the Call. Child abuse isn't always easy to spot. But now it's easier to stop. 1-844-CO-4-KIDS 1-844-264-5437 You Dial the Number. We'll Make the Call. co4kids.org #co4kids You Dial the Number. We'll Make the Call.

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