HAVETHETALKABOUT SUBSTANCEUSEPREVENTION
FromChildMindInstitute
Talking openly with your teen about drugs and alcohol helps them understand what’s okay and what’s not, so they can make safer choices. When parentsclearlyexplaintheirexpectations and make it easy for kids to be honest, teensarebetterpreparedtohandlepeer pressureandavoidriskysituations.
Talking with your teen goes better when you give them a headsup, explain your rules in a straightforward way, and talk to them with the same respect you'd want in return. When you listen, stay calm, and keep the conversation open, yourteenismorelikelytobehonestand makesaferchoices.
Parents keep kids safer by setting clear rules, talking honestly about the risks, and making sure their teen knows they canalwayscallforhelp—nomatterwhat. When teens feel supported instead of scared of getting in trouble, they’re far more likely to make good choices and reachoutbeforethingsgotoofar.
WHATTODOIFYOUFINDYOUR TEENISUSINGSUBSTANCES
FromChildMindInstitute
Identify your child’s triggers and remove them whenever possible. Therapy sessions with a psychologist or an addiction counselor are very helpfulduringthisstage.
Turn your home into a supportive environment that is incompatible with substance abuse. Family participation isanessentialpartofrecovery.
Help your child develop new coping mechanisms for handling stress, to prevent him from falling back on substances.
Resources
https://childmind.org/article/talkteenager-substance-use-abuse/ https://childmind.org/article/whatshould-i-do-if-my-child-has-adrinking-problem/