They need the right information about meds, drugs, and alcohol—at every age.
Learn.
Learn the facts so you can provide real answers.
It’s important to not rely on your own assumptions of the way things were when you were their age. Learn as much as you can about legal and illegal drugs, alcohol, marijuana, and vaping with the resources below. Focus on the substances and their long-term effects on youth development, so you can provide kids with helpful facts without being preachy or judgmental. Be aware that social media is not necessarily the best resource for information. Use trusted resources such as NIDA, SAMSHA and the CDC.
These resources are a great way to start learning more.
The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence has a variety of campaigns related to underage drinking, tobacco prevention, opioids, marijuana, and more. [Visit link.]
Operation Parent has a helpful video of a recent webinar: Your Teen’s Brain and the Link to Risky Behavior. Other resources, too! [Visit link.]
AAA (yes, the travel and roadside assistance people) have great facts about substance-impaired driving. [Visit link.]
New York State: Cannabis Conversations. Tons of information about cannabis, THC, CBD, medical use, and more. [Visit link.]
Gateway Foundation: Effects of Drug Abuse and Addiction [Visit link.]
Discuss.
Start the conversation, and discuss it in a way that’s appropriate for their age.
Don’t be afraid to bring it up, honestly and directly. Use everyday opportunities to start a simple conversation. Showing kids that you are comfortable talking about it removes barriers to communication and reduces stigma. Use real-life examples, and speak frankly about the specific substances and questions they may have. When kids feel safe asking you about sensitive or embarrassing topics, you can influence their thinking and behavior.
Genetically, youth are pre-disposed to addiction if it runs in the family, so if substance abuse exists in your family, share that information with them. Be honest about your own use and experience; share what you would do differently. Be clear and direct about your expectations, specifically around substance use. Set an example, and be a role model for your child.
There’s no reason to wait. Here are some tools to help you have the conversation in an age-appropriate way.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has a national substance use prevention campaign called, “Talk. They hear you.” which helps parents and caregivers start talking with their children early about the dangers of alcohol and other drugs uses. Resources for schools and educators are included, as well. [Visit link.]
New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports has a great reference for age-appropriate conversations, from preschool through age 18: Making the Talk Count at Every Age. [Visit link.]
New York State also offers many resources related to prevention, for parents & caregivers, educators & school staff, and community members. The “Tips for Talking” section offers especially practical advice. [Visit link.]
Operation Parent offers helpful resources for a variety of topics from gaming and social media use to anxiety and substance use prevention. Resources are organized by age group, so there’s lots to explore! [Visit link.]
Mental Health America has a helpful page - Talking To Adolescents And Teens: Starting The Conversation. Practical advice, Dos & Don’ts, and more. [Visit link.]
Guide.
Guide them to make healthy decisions. If you don’t, who will?
When you know the facts and have honest conversations, you are empowering kids to make good decisions regarding their own health and safety. Encourage them to set goals that are achievable, specific, and positive about not using specific substances and properly using medications. Once they’ve set their own goals, keep them accountable by regularly asking how it’s going and how you can help.
Don't let their guidance come from a source you don't trust. Here are some resources you can use.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Keeping Youth Drug Free is a downloadable resource with drug facts, conversation tips, and helpful advice on setting expectations and boundaries with kids of differing ages. [Visit link.]
Powerful Parenting Prevention in 3 Minutes (YouTube video) from Caron Treatment Centers. “Refusal Skills” [Visit link.]
KidsHealth has a handy resource for emotions and behavior, with sections on Talking to Your Child About Drugs and Talking to Your Kids About Alcohol, plus many other topics. [Visit link.]
The Truth About Substances
Alcohol
Youth who consume alcohol are more likely to experience academic and social problems. They are more likely to have lower academic achievements and potentially failing grades, while more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior. Repeated consumption of alcohol will disrupt a youth’s natural growth and development, having lifelong and harmful consequences on an individual’s brain, liver, and heart.
Alcohol | Office of Addiction Services and Supports (ny.gov)
Nicotine
Usage of tobacco products in any form is detrimental to one’s health. Cigarette smoking is related to numerous deadly illnesses including lung and mouth cancer, emphysema, heart disease, COPD, and chronic bronchitis.
Vaping or E-cigarettes are a mechanism for smoking nicotine and usage among high school and middle school students is on the rise. 99% of e-cigarettes contain nicotine, and some labels don’t even disclose the specific amount. Nicotine of any amount is harmful to a youth’s long-term development by changing the parts of the brain that control attention, learning, mood and impulses, ultimately leading to a higher likelihood of addiction to other drugs.
Prescription Medications
Prescription medication addiction is the fastest growing drug problem in the US; profoundly affecting the lives of youth. Despite a common misconception that prescription drugs are less harmful to one’s body, there is a range of health consequences that are particularly harmful to a youth’s developing brain and body. Specifically, panic and anxiety disorders, poor hand-eye coordination, and multiple respiratory issues.
Opioids | Office of Addiction Services and Supports (ny.gov)
Marijuana
Marijuana is still illegal for teens in all 50 states. Whether it’s smoked, vaped, or consumed there are lasting consequences to a youth’s academic and cognitive development. Marijuana dulls attention, memory, and learning skills; making students who use it more likely to drop out of high school or college. Long-term, repeated use can lead to addiction and usage of other drugs.
Adult Use Cannabis | Office of Addiction Services and Supports (ny.gov)
You’re the one they come to when looking for answers, maybe not even about their curiosity but when they realize they need help. Take a look at these resources that will help you to navigate their recovery.
Tips for Talking
Encourage conversation, Don't lecture. Encourage children and teens to share their thoughts and feelings. Listen and respond thoughtfully to their concerns. Avoid questions that have a simple "yes" or "no" answer to start a meaningful dialogue about substance use.
Show respect to their point of view. Acknowledge their feelings, and don't respond with anger or judgment. It will make them more likely to listen to and respect your viewpoint. Focus efforts on teaching children what to do as opposed to what not to do.
Don't hide a family history of issues substance use or addiction. The truth is important. When you feel they're ready, address your family history and experiences with drugs or alcohol. It doesn't have to be uncomfortable, drawing from our past experiences can be a powerful teaching moment.
Thanks to our campaign collaborators and partners!
Causewave Community Partners, Soucier Design, Calabrese Studio, and IBERO
Child Care Council, Irondequoit Police Department, Herrema's Market Place, HOPE Dealers-BTC, The Laundry House, Mary Therese Friel, Northridge Church, Nurse-Family Partnership, OASAS, PFLAG, Prevention Resource Center, Rochester Police Department, ROCovery Fitness, Dr. Kristen Savage, TMT Models and Talent, Wegmans
This campaign was made possible by NYS OASAS through federal funding under the SAMHSA State Opioid Response Grant #H79T1081718-01.