Some conversations are harder to have than others, but they are necessary. Opening dialogue between you and your teen about drugs is one of those uncomfortable but needed conversations. The problem most parents face is how to talk to their kids about drugs, especially their teens.
According to ChildDevelopmentInfo.com, kids who feel comfortable talking to their parents about their concerns and feelings are more likely to avoid drugs. How can you talk to your teen even when you feel underqualified or concerned? Try these five conversation starters:
#1: Talk Facts
Do your homework and read up on drug and substance abuse facts. How many kids near your child’s age try drugs? How many kids develop a habit, need help, but are too afraid to ask for it? How many teens die from drug use or suffer from chronic health conditions?
Share these facts with your teen. Emphasize the immediate and long term consequences of drug use. Be up front and don’t shelter them from the truth.
You’re not trying to scare them, but you are endeavoring to inform them so they can start thinking about how much their life will change if they begin to use drugs or don’t get help after making a mistake.
#2: Let Your Stance Be Known
As a parent, you are a role model. You hold great power over your teen’s opinions, values, and decisions. It may not seem like it at times, but your teen looks up to you as an example. Don’t shy away from letting your stance on drugs be known.
HealthyChildren.org says to “leave no doubt as to where you stand.” Don’t be afraid of setting strict rules and explaining that you’re doing so because you love your teen, drugs are dangerous, safety is important, and drugs are illegal.
#3: Confront Peer Pressure
Your teen has lots of friends. The company they keep is important. Talk to them about peer pressure.
Empower your child to say no when pressured to try drugs, but also help them to understand that the people who pressure them are not real friends. If someone tries to make them do something dangerous, like drugs, then that person isn’t worth having as a “friend.”
#4: Talk about Real Life Drug Abuse Examples
The unfortunate reality is that there is a high chance your teen knows someone who does drugs. Don’t be afraid to talk to them about these people.
Talk about real life drug abuse examples. Discuss how their habit negatively affects them and those around them. Let your teen tell you how they feel about the situation and take the opportunity to understand them and address their concerns.
#5: Be There
Sometimes the best thing you can do is just be there. Be ready to stop what you are doing and listen to your teen when they want to talk.
The best way to talk to your teen about drugs is to be open and honest. Be firm, but also be open. The more you listen, the more likely they will be to open up.