Substance use is when someone uses tobacco, alcohol, prescription drugs, street drugs or other substances. Substance abuse is when someone is addicted to using one or more of these substances. Substance abuse can also happen when there isn't an addiction present. For example, people who drink heavily periodically – often called binge drinking – are considered to be abusing substances. Both substance use and abuse can negatively affect a person's life.
Some teens may try drugs, drinking or smoking because they feel pressured to fit in with peers. Some may use substances to rebel or escape from their lives. Others may be drawn by curiosity. Whatever the reason, it is important to talk to your teen about the effects of substance use. When talking to your teen, stay calm and really listen. Keep in mind that in some situations, it may be necessary to seek help outside of your family, such as an addictions counselor, to get to the source of the problem.
It is very important to talk to your teen about partying and staying safe. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to drink alcohol, yet many teens do drink underage. It is a good idea to tell your teen that at any time, day or night, you will come and get him if he does not have a safe ride home. Tell her that you will not yell, punish or discuss her actions until the next day. If your teen does make the smart choice and calls you when she doesn't have a safe ride home, make sure you tell her that she made the right and responsible decision to not drive or ride with someone who is intoxicated.
Additionally, talk to your teen about staying safe when drinking alcohol. Many people are sexually assaulted while drunk or passed out. It is a good idea to talk to your teen about his safety. Maybe it is as simple as always staying with a friend or group of friends. Whatever you decide, come up with a plan together that will help to keep him safe.
Experimenting is often a normal part of adolescence and most teens will not develop an addiction. But some do. Make sure your child is aware of the legal, social, physical and mental problems that can come from substance use. If you believe your child is using substances or has a problem, seek help from one of the many Manitoba addiction services that provides support to youth and their families.
Possible signs that your teen may have a substance use problem could include changes in grades, changes in involvement in school and after-school activities, increased moodiness or anxiety, withdrawal from family and friends, and having no money yet having no purchases to show for it.
Tobacco
- Preventing Teen Smoking
- Second Hand Smoke Fact Sheet
- Talking to Your Kids About Tobacco – Parent's Guide
- Tobacco Education for Manitoba Students
- Tobacco: Quit For Life
Alcohol & Drugs
- Addictions Foundation of Manitoba
- Be the Influence: Why Should I Talk to My Child About Alcohol?
- Inhalant Abuse: What You Should Know
- Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Crisis Services
This link will take you to information on the services and information lines available across Manitoba, including mobile crisis services. - National Anti-Drug Strategy
- Substance Abuse/Addictions
Find out about causes of substance abuse/addictions and signs that there may be a substance abuse problem. - Substance Use, Directory of Youth Addiction Services
- Substance Abuse Stabilization Facilities
For some youth with substance abuse problems, recovery begins in a stabilization facility. To learn more about the stabilization system and facilities in Manitoba, use this link. - Talking with Your Kids About Drugs – Crystal Meth
This resource will help you to talk to your teen about this dangerous and highly addictive drug. - Youth Addictions – Frequently Asked Questions
- Youth Drug Prevention for Parents
A comprehensive resource for parents that includes information about how to talk with your child about drugs, some of the "street" language for drugs and what they are, and behaviour by your child that should cause concern. - Youth Drug Stabilization Act Information
This act allows parents to seek involuntary detention for a child who has a severe addiction problem.