Talking About Drugs
For many people, bringing up the subject of drugs is difficult. Your parents may try to dodge the discussion, and you yourself may feel unsure about how to proceed. To boost your chances for a productive conversation, take some time to think through the issues you want to discuss before you talk with your parents or teen. Also, think about how you might react and respond to questions and feeling.
When You Talk About Drugs- Tell your parent or teen that you love them and that you are worried that he/she might be using drugs or alcohol;
- Tell them It makes you worried and concerned about them when they do drugs;
- You are there to help and listen to them;
Parents who learn from their teens about the dangers of drinking,
smoking marijuana and other harmful substances like
meth, are more likely to
seek help and recovery.
Ask why he/she is using drugs. Reinforce the importance of
family. Get to know your kid’s friends and their parents. Remember
a saying in Spanish that says: Tell me who your friends are
and I will tell you who you are. When you get a better idea
of the situation, then you can decide what the next steps should
be. These could include setting new rules and consequences that
are reasonable and enforceable — such as a new, earlier curfew,
no cell phone or computer privileges for a period of time, or
less time hanging out with friends. You may want to get them
involved in positive new activities that help them meet new
people in settings that are drug-free. They can also spend time
with their families, such as helping their grandparents with
errands like grocery shopping. For more information about how
to address your teen’s alcohol and drug use and how to set and
enforce rules, go to www.TheAntiDrug.com.
Ask your teen if there is someone they trust or feel comfortable
talking to. They shouldn’t necessarily make the final decision,
but they are more likely to be an active participant if they
have a say in what happens. Take your teen to the doctor or
talk to the school nurse and ask him or her about screening
your teen for drugs and alcohol. This may involve the health
professional asking your teen a simple question, or it may involve
a drug screen.
Sharing your concerns with your health professional can help you get the advice and assistance you need. If you have an appointment with your teen’s doctor, call ahead to make time to discuss this issue. It may also help to talk to other parents who have experienced what you are going through. You may feel as though you are the only family dealing with this issue, but know that there are parent support groups in your community or you can speak to extended family, neighbors and friends for their support.