Parents

Be Informed

DCF infographic that identifies negative risk factors that facilitate youth substance abuse

No one ever said parenting would be easy. Even the best-skilled, most caring parents may have trouble with their children, especially when it comes to substance abuse.

Truth is, your children will have to make his or her way in a world that is filled with opportunities to use drugs, so you have to be knowledgeable about the risks associated with drugs, communicate with your child about drugs, and know what actions are needed if you suspect your son or daughter is using drugs.

But here is the good news: teens who learn about the risks of drugs and alcohol from their parents are far less likely to use than those who do not. You are still the biggest influence in your teen's life, and you can help your teen stay safe and make healthy choices.

View Emojis to be aware of

What Do I Say?

Talking to your child about the dangers of drugs and alcohol isn’t always easy, but it could be one of the most important conversations you have with them. Parents have a significant impact on their children’s decision to try drugs and alcohol. If you are unsure about how to start or what to say take a look at SAMHSA’s five conversation goals to give you a good starting point:

Make it clear that you disapprove of underage drinking and drug use. 
While it may be tempting to want to be your child’s friend or be a “cool” parent, that should never get in the way of your child’s safety. Make it clear and unquestionable that you disapprove of underage drinking and other drugs.

Show you care. 
Ultimately, young people want you to be on their side. By giving your support and explaining that you want them to live healthy and successful lives, they are more likely to listen. Showing your concern for their well-being and happiness is a key factor in having a smooth conversation.

Be a reliable source of information. 
Make it clear that you are open to answering your child’s questions about drugs and alcohol. By keeping lines of communication open, you can prevent your child from being misled from misinformation from friends and classmates.

Let them know you are paying attention.
Young people are more likely to drink and do drugs if they think no one is watching. Taking an interest in who your child’s friends are and knowing where they are is a good place to start without being overbearing. It’s important they know you are aware of who they are with and what they are doing.

Give your child strategies to avoid drinking and drug use. 
Peer pressure is a powerful force in a young person’s life. Even if you don’t think your child wants to drink or try drugs it’s important to give them the tools to turn them down if they are confronted with that situation. Give them a code word they can text you if they need to get out of an uncomfortable situation and give them the language they need to say “no”. View the "Have a Plan or 5" section on our youth page.

Do not feel the need to address all of these points in a big sit-down talk. By working these topics into casual daily conversations, your child will be more likely to listen.

What Can I Do?

Be a good role model when it comes to drinking, taking medicine and handling stress. Research shows that when it comes to drugs, children are likely to model their parents’ behaviors. If you choose to drink alcohol, for instance, consume small amounts with a meal or during a celebratory occasion. Don’t become intoxicated in front of your children and even if medically recommended, avoid marijuana use in front of children.

Know your child’s risk level.
Some teens are more at risk for developing a substance abuse problem than other teens, according to research. Family history of drug or alcohol problems, especially when it is the parent’s history, can place a child at increased risk for developing a problem. The same goes for a history of traumatic events, such as witnessing or experiencing a car accident or natural disaster or being a victim of physical or sexual abuse.

Have dinner as a family.
Having regular family meals can have a positive impact on youth development and school success. For example, one study found that 6th to 12th grade students who ate 5 to 7 family dinners per week had significantly lower odds of engaging in a number of high risk behavior patterns such as alcohol, drug, and tobacco use, depression-suicide, violence, antisocial behavior, and school problems when compared to those who did not. (Published by the National Institute on Health).

Other steps to take.
Lock up all prescriptions while in use and properly dispose of them when finished. Most CVS and Walgreens stores have Rx disposal boxes.

  • Keep tabs on alcohol and secure it if possible
  • Never allow underage drinking or drug use in your home
  • Have the conversation with family and friends about not providing alcohol, drugs or tobacco to your children

LINKS TO OTHER RESOURCES

Marijuana Talk Kit - Partnership for Drug-Free Kids

samhsa.gov/talk-they-hear-you/parent-resources

DRUGFREE.ORG/ARTICLE/CONNECTING-WITH-YOUR-TEEN/

drugfree.org/prevention-and-taking-action-early

getsmartaboutdrugs.gov