Drug misuse

Talking about drugs with your child can be a difficult conversation. Like alcohol, it’s better to talk about it early. You can try using current issues happening on TV or in the media to start a conversation.

Explain the risks involved with taking drugs. For example, the physical and mental effects it can have and how it can be hard to stop. 

Give them space to talk and ask questions. This will help you find out how much they know already. It can help to prepare yourself before the conversation. Read more about specific drugs, their effects and the law.

Explain to your child it’s only ok to take medicine and drugs that a Doctor has prescribed to them. They should never take someone else’s medicine or drugs. Explain they could have an allergic reaction, or it might not mix well with their other medicine.

If the conversation becomes too intense, it can cause an argument. It’s then likely they won’t feel comfortable opening up. It may also stop them coming to you in the future.

Talk to your child when you are both relaxed and be honest and open with your feelings. Give them space to talk and listen to what they have to say.

If your teenager is going out with friends, it’s a good idea to put some rules and boundaries in place, such as:

• setting a time they need to be home by
• discussing how they will be getting home
• keeping in contact with each other
• who to phone in the event of an emergency

Listen to your child’s thoughts and suggestions. Reward them for sticking to the boundaries.

Sometimes your teenager may behave out of character and it can be hard to understand their behaviour. This may lead you to become concerned about whether they are taking drugs. But there are lots of other reasons why teenagers behave differently. Read more about understanding behaviour.

It’s normal for teenagers to engage in risky behaviour. Sometimes children can feel pressured or curious about drugs. Or they might be feeling worried, sad or stressed. But there are ways to help manage these feelings. Read our information on behaviour, emotions and mental health.

Think about things that your child or young person enjoys and encourage them to get involved in these hobbies or activities. This might be drawing, playing the guitar or baking. Praise your child for things they are good at. This will help build their confidence and self-esteem.

You may have had your own experiences with drugs. This may make it harder for you to talk about drugs with your child. But, try to open up and show them you understand how difficult peer pressure can be. Talking about your own experiences can help your child understand. Read more about drugs and alcohol. You will also find more information on how to start a conversation with your child or young person. 

If you feel you need help or advice about your own experiences with drugs, there is lots of support available to you.