Talking to Teens About Substance Use

If you have a teenager in your life, you might be asking yourself if you need to be ready to talk to them about substances Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. , or if they are too young for you to worry about it. The reality is that there is a good chance that they may already have friends talking about it, have been introduced to it, and have questions of their own. 

There are a lot of reasons why people, young people especially, might turn to substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. use. It could just be curiosity or feeling pressure to fit in - or they could be dealing with some challenges and using it as a way to cope or numb out. 

Whatever the reason might be, it’s important not to assume the worst. It is important to try to understand the underlying reason WHY they are using and be a resource who can provide healthy, alternative options.

A teen or young person in your life will be more open and willing to share or come to you for advice if having open and honest conversations is something that is done regularly in your household. Giving them examples of how you are interested in their life and willing to listen will make them more likely to share the hard parts of their life too. This can be done by creating regular opportunities to talk and connect such as meal times, during school commutes, or before bed. You can also build a family norm around talking about what’s going on in your life and sharing feelings. This is best achieved by modeling the behavior you hope to see in your child.

Clear is kind. It is hard for young people to meet your expectations if they don’t know what they are, so take some time to talk about your family’s expectations around substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. use and create a plan together:

• Ask if they know what your family or household rules are about substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. use.
•  Discuss what the expectations are for them. 
• Make a plan together for what they should do if they are having a difficult time meeting those expectations.

If you feel that your teen may be considering or is already using substances Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. , be sure to check out the following trusted sites with a deep well of resources Materials to help someone. :

• In a Time of Disruption, Protecting Your Child from the Risks of Substance Use
• SAMHSA Substance Use Prevention Parent Resources
• Parent Project 

For additional support visit our crisis support page.