TALKING AND LISTENING IS THE KEY TO DRUG-FREE TEENS

Talking to your teens about alcohol and drugs is one of the most
important things that you can do to prevent substance use issues in
your home. It seems so simple, but parents often underestimate the
influence that they have on their teens, especially once they reach
high school.

Getting your teen to talk to you may not be an easy task. Many teens
feel uneasy when talking to their parents about drug use. This is
normal. Don't take it as a sign to back away, they need you. Young
people want their parents to stay involved in their lives even though
you might be hard-pressed to find a teen to admit to it. If talking
about drugs and alcohol seems hard-start small. Talk about their day,
their classes, friends, stresses and dreams. Talking about the little
things makes talking about big things easier.

You will be one step closer to maintaining a strong relationship with
your teen if you can keep the lines of communication open and talk
about im-portant issues like drugs and alcohol in a calm and
respectful way. Remember, talking is not the same as lecturing. It
requires two-way communication. Therefore, listening is just as important.

Here are some tips to help you talk to your teen about alcohol and
drugs:

* Ask questions that they can't answer 'yes' or 'no' to-like, 'What do
you think about marijuana?' or 'What would you do if you were
pressured to drink?'

* Listen by nodding, try to maintain eye contact, clarify what they
have said-'So, you think pot is not such a big deal.'

* Don't assume that a teen's experience with drugs and alcohol today
is similar to when you were a teen. Find out how times have changed.

* Find a natural time to talk-for example, when watching TV, going for
a walk, or in the car. Sometimes, being beside them instead of across
from them makes it easier to open up.

* To get a conversation started, use teachable moments-talk about a
newspaper article, music video, TV show.

* Avoid lecturing-they often tune out.

* Clearly communicate family rules and consequences about the use of
alcohol and drugs.

* Try to end the conversation positively-they are more likely to
approach you again.

Talking about drugs and alcohol in a way that is respectiful, honest
and non-judgmental will help you to stay connected to your teen, and
help them decide what impact drugs and alcohol will have on their
lives. Don't delay-let your teen know you want to talk.

For more information, call the Halton Region Health Department,
1-866-442-5866, TTY 905-827-9833 and http://www.region.halton.on.ca/health