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Substance Use

What is substance use?

Substance use refers to using alcohol, drugs, prescription medication, or other substances in ways that can be harmful.

How can I prepare for a conversation with my child about drugs, alcohol, or other substance use?

Whether or not your child is using substances, they may know people who drink alcohol, vape, use cannabis (smoking or edibles), or misuse prescription medications.

It can be upsetting to learn that your child has used substances. Before talking with them, prepare yourself to listen calmly, even if they say something you weren't expecting. Keep an open mind so you don't close off future communication.

Your child may also ask about your own experiences with substances. Think about how you want to respond. If you have used substances, share what you learned from the experience.

When should I start a conversation with my child about drugs, alcohol, or other substance use?

Watch for changes in your child's behavior. You may suspect substance use if they:

  • Come home smelling of alcohol or seem unusually tired
  • Start spending time with a new group of friends
  • Become more secretive or withdrawn
  • Lose interest in activities they used to love

If you're concerned, don't make assumptions — talk with your child directly. Encourage them to be open with you. Let them know you won't punish them for being honest, and that your goal is to help keep them safe.

How can I start the conversation with my child about drugs, alcohol, or other substance use?

Acknowledge that many people use substances, both legal and illegal, but may not fully understand the risks involved. 

For example, some young people think of vaping as inhaling flavored water vapor, not realizing the liquid also contains nicotine and other addictive chemicals that can affect their health. (Source: American Lung Association)

A pill that looks like real prescription medication may also be a fake that contains a deadly amount of fentanyl.

What should I cover during the conversation with my child about drugs, alcohol, or other substances?

Ask your child why they think people use substances. Common reasons include:

  • Curiosity
  • Peer pressure or wanting to fit in with friends
  • A desire to rebel
  • Self-medicating for stress, anxiety, or other mental health struggles 

If your child is struggling, work with them to find healthier ways to cope. 

It also helps to focus on avoiding using substances for reasons that matter to your teen specifically — substance use can affect their athletic performance, their ability to drive, their health, and their appearance.

How can I understand what my child shares about drugs, alcohol, or other substances?

Listen closely to how your child talks about specific substances — it can offer information about which ones they might consider trying. For example, if you live somewhere recreational cannabis is legal, your child may assume edibles are safe, even though many are very strong.

If anything in the conversation makes you think your child, or someone they know, may be seriously at risk, reach out for help.

Remind your child that their safety is your top priority:

  • Never get in a car with a driver who has been drinking or using drugs
  • Never drive after drinking or using drugs themselves
  • Call or text you anytime they need a safe ride home or feel uncomfortable with what's going on around them

How can I keep the conversation going?

If you're watching a TV show or movie together and a scene involves substance use, use it as a natural opening for conversation. Ask your child whether the depiction felt realistic, or whether it glamorized the behavior.

Family support and parental monitoring are among the strongest protective factors against risky behavior like substance use. (Source: CDC) Knowing where your child is and who they're spending time with can help keep them safe.

Helpful resources