A basic reality is that children will have to make their way in a world that is filled with opportunities to use drugs, but parents can prepare their children to make positive choices.
Learn
Parents need to get educated about the risks now. If parents have a working knowledge of common drugs, know their effects on the mind and body, and the symptoms of their use they can discuss these subjects intelligently with their children.
- Know the different types of drugs most commonly used and the dangers associated with each.
- Be able to identify paraphernalia associated with each drug; be familiar with the street names of drugs; know what drugs look like.
- Know the signs of drug use signs of drug use and be alert for changes in your child's behavior or appearance.
Communicate
Parents need to know that the most important thing to remember when it comes to talking about difficult subjects like drinking and drugs is that it's not a five-minute "talk."
Communication with your teen:
- Make a plan
- Present the facts
- Listen
- Discuss
- Set rules
- Set clear consequences - reward good behavior
- Recognize road blocks
- Continue the conversation
Take Action
It is a critical time for your family once you suspect – or know – that your son or daughter is using drugs or alcohol.
Know that many other families have had to work through these difficult times just like you. The most important thing is for you to take action on your child’s behalf the first time that you suspect drug or alcohol use.
Monitoring skills for parents:
- Ask questions - who, what, when and where. Have your kids check in with you regularly.
- Be prepared and know the facts. Parents are the first line of defense when it comes to teen drug use.
- Make your position clear. Don't assume your teenager knows where you stand. Tell your children that you forbid them to use alcohol, tobacco and drugs because you love them.
- Make the rules of the house clear to your teenager.
- Monitor internet use.
- Be a good role model.
Resources
- How to Prevent Drunk Driving
- Short and long-term effects of Marijuana (NIH)
- Useful Drug, Alcohol and Addiction Acronyms You Should Know
Topical Issues
- Inhalants
- Prescription Drugs
- Steroids/Sports Supplements
- Over-the-Counter
- Commonly Abused Drugs (Medline)
- DXM (Cough Medicine)
More Information