Talking to Your Teens About Substance Use

Results from a 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) found that among people aged 12 to 20, 12.2% had recently vaped nicotine, and 1 in 12 were actively participating in underage drinking. Since the pressures and changes that come with adolescence can be challenging, it is important to talk to your child about healthy coping mechanisms and substance use, as well as knowing what signs that may indicate they are using substances. Teens may start experimenting with substances for any number of reasons including peer pressure, general curiosity, coping with mental health concerns, or they could be influenced by consistent exposure to substance use at a friend’s house or at home.

If your child is experimenting with substances, there are a few behavioral and physical red flags to look for:

Behavioral changes

• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Increased secrecy
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Engaging in high-risk behavior
• Declining academic performance

Physical changes

• Red, glazed eyes
• Fatigue
• Cough (depending on what the substance is)
• Slurred speech

If you notice the behavior changes mentioned above on a more consistent basis, this could indicate regular use rather than a one-time instance.

Initiating a conversation with your child about substance use can be challenging but is essential for fostering open communication and trust. Mandi Ryan, Vice President of Healthcare Integration at Centerstone encourages parents to start the discussion early, ideally before any signs of experimentation appear, to create a safe space where your child feels comfortable approaching you if they face issues or situations involving substances. “This conversation should be open-ended, focusing on your feelings toward substance use and how it aligns with your family values,” adds Ryan.

It’s important to understand why your child may have started using substances in the first place, whether it was a one-time event, occasional use with friends, or a coping mechanism for underlying issues. As most substance use among teens is linked to unmet needs or struggles, try to gather this information without lecturing. Instead, listen empathetically, express your disapproval of underage drinking or substance misuse, and reassure them that your primary concern is their health and well-being. Emphasize the importance of making safe choices, help them develop strategies to say no in situations where they feel pressure to use, and let them know they can always seek your support without fear of judgment.

When it comes to effective intervention strategies, exploring the underlying reasons for your child’s substance use is crucial. Approach these conversations with love and avoid judgment. If mental health issues are involved, seek professional support right away, ideally from a mental health and substance use counselor, as these issues often co-occur in teens. Having a counselor can provide a space for your child to express concerns they might not feel comfortable sharing with you. If your child resists conversations surrounding substance use, continue to lead with love and understanding. Remember, these conversations are inherently challenging, but approaching them with empathy can increase the likelihood of a positive outcome. And if your teen needs additional support, Centerstone can help. Visit our counseling services page or our addiction services page to learn more.