Teens & Drugs: How to Talk to Your Children

It is very common for persons with a substance addiction to deny they have a problem and are reluctant to get the help they need.

A good support system of family and friends can help bring to their attention the concerns they have for their loved one, in attempt to stop it from getting worse.

With the support of family, friends, co-workers, and even clergy in consultation with healthcare providers and support groups, we can all help direct a “heart-to-heart” discussion with the person about the consequences of their addiction and help to encourage them to accept professional help.

Tips for Parents

Communicate with your children. Talk to them about what they see in school with respect to drugs and alcohol. Ask them what they think about it. Keeping an open and non-judgmental, non-critical dialogue with your kids. This will allow them to feel safe and comfortable to open up to you. It will also help them when challenged by peers to engage in illegal substances.
Monitor your kids. Parents are encouraged to know their children’s friends and who they are hanging out with. Encourage their friends to come over to your home, and even get to know their parents. Always know where your child is going, and what they are doing.
Keep alcohol, recreational drugs or prescription medications locked away. When temptations are not available, it is harder for anyone to feed their craving or addiction.

Parents need to know who their children are friends with and hanging out with

Set clear rules and boundaries in your home. Make sure your children know the consequences if they break the rules. But also keep your children informed of the hard truths and facts about substance abuse. Encourage your children to come to you – their parents – for answers, and not on their peers.