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The Importance of Communication
- Talking with your kids about substance use is not a one-time event
- It is okay to not have all the answers
- Start conversations early
- Continue to have frequent, open conversations with your child
Tips for Having the Discussion
- Get informed about some of the substances your child might encounter as well as the potential impacts on mental and physical health
- Find a comfortable setting
- Make it a relaxed two-way discussion, not a lecture
- Discuss your feelings about substance use calmly and listen to what they have to say
- If you don’t feel like you know enough about a particular substance, use the opportunity to say so – and invite your child to research it with you
- Set clear boundaries about substance use in your family
- Have clear goals. These may include:
- Beginning an ongoing conversation about substance use
- Gauge how your child feels about drug/alcohol use in general
- Gain insights into the pressures your child may be facing
- Find healthy coping skills together
- Express concern, compassion and offer support
- Let them know that no matter what, if they need help, they can always reach out to you
What happens if you suspect that your teen is already using alcohol and drugs?
- An open conversation is a good opportunity to find out more about why your teen might have decided to try alcohol or another drug
- Using substances may start by being a coping mechanism to help them get through difficult situations
- Help them by offering suggestions on healthier ways to cope
- If they’ve just tried a substance a few times, this would be a good chance to inform them about the effects on the developing brain and body
- If you are worried for their health and safety or feel overwhelmed, seek professional help
Some Tips for Having the Conversation about a Teen’s Drug Use
- Practice the conversation with your partner or a trusted friend
- Make an agreement with yourself to stay calm
- Things to keep in mind when you talk to your teen:
- Tell your child that you love them, and you are worried that they might be using drugs or alcohol
- You know that drugs may seem like the thing to do, but they can have serious consequences
- It makes you feel worried and concerned about them
- You are there to listen to them
- You want them to be a part of the solution
- Tell them how you can help
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