Drugs & Alcohol Advice

The use of both legal and illegal drugs among teenagers and young adults is widespread. Teenagers are likely to experiment, test boundaries and take risks. Smoking, drinking and trying drugs are some of the most common ways in which many young people do this.

However, substance misuse is also one of the most common risks to a young person’s health and development. All drugs have the potential to cause harm, some can be addictive, and using drugs in combination can increase the risks. Legal drugs such as alcohol and tobacco can be very addictive. Illegal drugs include cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy and heroin.

Advice for Parents/Carers

There are things you can do as a parent to help your child develop a healthy and informed relationship with alcohol and drugs. But if you think your child may be using alcohol or drugs to help them cope with difficult feelings or mental health issues, speak to your GP for professional advice.

Things you can do when advising your child on drugs and alcohol:

Be a responsible role model

You will influence your child’s attitudes towards alcohol and drugs well before they have their first experiences with them.

Talk openly and honestly about alcohol whenever your children start asking you about it

This might include the reasons why people can enjoy it, such as socialising and relaxing, drawbacks such as hangovers and getting sick, and the risks posed by alcohol.

Make conversations about alcohol, drugs and safe choices part of the day-to-day rather than a one-off ‘big talk’

The more you talk about these issues in the family, the more your children will know they can come to you for information and support when they need to.

Help your child learn to make safe and healthy decisions

Be clear about the connections between drinking, drugs and self-confidence. Encourage your child to strengthen their confidence and wellbeing in other ways such as exercise or sport, doing activities and hobbies they enjoy, and spending time with friends and family.

Do your research

Find out what you can about the law and the health and safety risks associated with under-age drinking - as well as the names and effects of illegal drugs. This will help you to feel more confident about setting boundaries and talking to your child.