Alcohol and other drugs are in every community. However, as a parent you can help your child steer clear of the dangers. Parents are the most important influence in a child’s life; research shows that parents are central in preventing teen use of alcohol or other drugs because losing parents’ trust and respect are what most teens consider the most important reason not to use.
Risk
Every child is at risk. If your child uses alcohol or other drugs, it does not mean you are a bad parent, it means your child may need help.
Some children are more at risk than others. For example, a teen may start using drugs or alcohol if he or she:
Has little parental supervision or guidance
Has untreated emotional or behavioral problems (such as depression, anxiety, or hyperactivity)
Has family members or friends who use alcohol or other drugs
Has low grades and poor school performance
What you can do
Get involved in your child’s life. It can help prevent alcohol and other drug problems
Praise your child for positive behavior
Share your values with your child. Help your child to make good decisions
Be responsible with your own use of alcohol or medications. You act as a role model for your child.
Know where your child is at all times. Have him or her check in with you regularly
Get to know your child’s friends and their parents
Ask questions about your child’s daily life. Listen to his or her opinions and concerns
Make firm rules. Make it clear that underage alcohol use and use of other drugs is unacceptable
Have specific consequences for breaking the rules, and stick to them! Be consistent.
Know what to do
If you think your child is using alcohol or other drugs, talk about it right away:
Stay calm so you can express your thoughts clearly
Listen carefully to your child’s responses (if your child is under the influence, wait until he or she is sober)
Remind your child of the rules about underage alcohol or other drug use
Follow through with consequences set for breaking the rules
Remind your child that you LOVE him or her, and are worried about the possibility of his or her use of ATOD
Seek advice. For example you could contact:
School counselor, Prevention Coordinator
Health-care provider
Local substance abuse agency
Community or national hotline
Tell your child you are trying to help, not punish.
Find treatment. A treatment program can help your child fight repeated problems with alcohol or other drugs.
Source: Suspect Your Teen is Using Drugs or Drinking? By Parents. The Anti-Drug