Talking to your kids about teenage substance use can be challenging for parents. The conversation is often met with resistance, misunderstanding, or even fear of saying the wrong thing. 

However, it’s also among the most significant conversations. Avoiding the discussion can leave teens susceptible to misinformation and undesirable impulses. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reveals that individuals aged 18 to 25 compose over 11% of annual ER visits. Those below 18 make up 5% of visits. 

Every year, the country records over 7.7 million drug-related emergencies. The majority of emergencies faced by those between 18 and 25 were cannabis-related. As a parent, your approach can make a significant difference. Open communication and a strong relationship with your teen can help guide them through difficult choices.

Here are four actionable strategies to make these conversations more productive and meaningful.

1. Understand Your Teen’s Perspective

Kids view conversations about teenage substance use differently than parents might expect. Many feel judged or worry they’ll face immediate punishment if they share their thoughts or experiences. This makes them difficult to open.

According to a 2022 New York Times article, teenagers value discussions where they feel heard rather than lectured. Scare tactics only work for some. They want adults to approach the topic with an open mind and a willingness to listen. Moreover, they wish adults could be more honest, start the conversation early, help them understand the risks, and care for them. Instead of starting the dialogue with warnings, try asking open-ended questions. 

For example, you might say, “What have you heard about vaping at school?” or “How do you feel about alcohol being present at parties?” Listening without interruption is key. Avoid the urge to correct or overreact while your teen is sharing. This makes them feel respected and more willing to engage honestly.

2. Start Early and Stay Informed About Current Trends

Don’t wait until your child is a teenager to talk about substance use. Early conversations, even in elementary school, can make a big difference. You can tailor these talks to their age. Start with simple explanations about the effects of drugs and alcohol. As they get older, you can discuss peer pressure and decision-making.

It’s also essential to remain proactive about the latest drug trends. The world of substance use is constantly changing, especially with the rise of newer trends like delta-8, delta-8 THC, delta-9, or delta-10. USA Today reports that Delta-8, for example, is a chemical isolated from the cannabis plant. It is made from hemp cannabidiols. Its products are available in the form of smokable flowers, tinctures, joints, vapes, gummies, and other goodies.

According to the FDA, this substance can cause hysteria, vomiting, palpitations, anxiousness, lightheadedness, mental confusion, and loss of consciousness. Hence, parents should remain aware, as teens may not fully understand these dangers. Being updated enables you to share credible and relevant details with your teen. This is especially important when discussing highly addictive substances like opioids. 

One such topic is the Suboxone lawsuit. Suboxone is a substance used to regulate opioid addiction. However, it has been scrutinized. It can cause severe oral complications, which the manufacturers hid from the consumers. Following extensive uproar, Indivior Solutions, Suboxone’s manufacturer, added a precautionary label in 2022. However, affected users can still join the Suboxone multidistrict litigation (MDL). 

TorHoerman Law reveals over 710 cases have been filed under this MDL in the District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. Including such examples in your conversations shows your child the dangers of teenage substance use and its severity. 

3. Create a Safe Space Through Active Listening 

Your teen needs to feel safe talking to you. Start by creating an ambiance where your teen gets comfortable expressing their thoughts. Eliminate distractions and give them your total commitment.  

Pay close attention to what your teen says without intervening. Validate their sentiments, even if you’re unhappy with their arguments. When your teen speaks, avoid interrupting. Instead, ponder what they say. This shows you respect them and helps cultivate trust.

Instead of setting strict rules without explanation, adopt a democratic parenting style. Remember, discussion alone isn’t enough to prevent abuse. Explain why you established the rules and expectations. You can also focus on the significance of the law, personal values, and the adverse effects of substances. The conversation highlights that teens are more likely to respect parental rules than everyday dialogues. 

Collaborative problem-solving fosters trust and teaches teens accountability. Start by discussing potential scenarios your teen might face. For instance, what would they do if a friend offered them drugs at a party? Together, you can brainstorm responses, like saying, “No, thanks, I’m not into that,” or having an excuse ready to leave the situation.

You can also set clear boundaries, such as curfews or limits on unsupervised gatherings. Instead of framing these rules as punishments, explain how they’re designed to keep your teen safe. If rules are broken, enforce natural consequences instead of harsh punishments. For example, losing phone privileges for a week if curfew is ignored helps them connect actions with outcomes.

4. Model Healthy Behaviors and Attitudes

Teens are keen observers, and they often mirror the behaviors they see at home. If parents preach one thing but practice another, it undermines the message. Scare tactics don’t work, either. Kids need reliable advice about the consequences of drugs. Clarify how teenage substance abuse can disrupt their health, relations, and prospects.

Demonstrating a healthy relationship with substances like alcohol reinforces the values you’re trying to instill. Try to understand why teens might use drugs. It could be peer pressure, stress, or curiosity. Talking about these reasons openly can help you address the root of the issue. Responsible parent behavior can have a lingering impact. 

This might mean drinking in moderation, avoiding casual jokes about substance use, or abstaining entirely if that aligns with your family’s values. Sharing personal experiences can also be effective. For example, you could talk about why you choose not to drink and how it has positively impacted your life. Such conversations make the topic relatable and encourage teens to reflect cautiously about their actions.

Commonly Asked Questions

Q1. How can I tell if my teenager is using drugs?

Look for changes in behavior like mood swings, withdrawal from family and friends, declining grades, or loss of interest in hobbies.  Also, pay attention to physical signs like red eyes, changes in sleep patterns, or unexplained weight loss. Trust your gut – if something feels off, it’s worth investigating further.

Q2. What should I do if I find out my teenager is using drugs?

Stay calm and avoid overreacting. It’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your teen. Express your concerns and hear their perspective. Seek professional help from a therapist or counselor specializing in teen substance use. They can offer counsel for you and your teen.

Q3. How can I support my teenager in staying drug-free?

Stay involved in their life and keep communication open. Encourage healthy activities and hobbies that build their self-esteem. Help them develop strong coping skills for dealing with stress and peer pressure. Most importantly, let them know you’re there for them unconditionally and that they can always come to you for help.

Starting conversations about teenage substance use isn’t easy, but it’s essential. By understanding their perspective, staying informed, fostering collaboration, and modeling healthy behaviors, you can create an open environment for meaningful dialogue. 

Remember, the goal isn’t to scare or control your teen but to provide them with the knowledge and confidence to navigate these challenges. These conversations will be eternal. Act early, stay consistent, be supportive, and keep the communication lines open. Your guidance matters more than you think in helping your children make smart choices about teenage substance use.