SUBSTANCE MISUSE – A GUIDE FOR PARENTS

INITIATE THE ONVERSATION:

• Make time, plan what you want to say
• Use topical events, media (television programmes, films) as a reference point for initiating conversations
• Use family meal-times or time spent during travel to host discussion
• Be open, honest and receptive

KEEP THE CONVERSATION GOING:

• Keep the communication channels ‘open’ and LISTEN whenever possible – allow young people to talk and express their opinions
• Give clear messages
• Try not to ‘preach’
• Remember young people are influenced by what you DO as much as what you SAY – be a good role model
• Young people can be influenced as much by positive behaviours as well as ‘negative’
• Remember peer group influence works two ways – young people are often attracted or choose to associate with different groups as a preference – and not just as a reaction to pressure
• Keep a rounded view of any issues – it is not just about immediate dangers – there are longer term consequences too (health, criminality, employability, travel prospects etc)
• Don’t use ‘scare’ tactics or inadvertently ‘mystify’ or ‘glamorise’ topic
• Try not to panic or over-react

SOME TIPS FOR PARENTS:

• Get up to date with credible, accurate and up to date information – be willing to learn
• Talk to and keep in touch with other parents
• If necessary utilise local advice and support services – don’t delay getting help
• Look at diversionary activities – having a range of hobbies and interests is a good protective factor against getting involved in substance misuse
• Negotiate but keep to firm boundaries and rules
• Supervision – know where they are, what they are doing and who they are with – be observant
• Wherever possible delay the onset of drinking alcohol – and be aware of the influence of drinking within family/friends circles on young people’s attitudes

SIGNS TO LOOK OUT FOR:

• Unexplained and uncharacteristic changes in mood and demeanour
• Poor sleep patterns
• Lack of money / money or other items missing
• Avoidance
• Sickness
• Weight loss or unexplained loss of appetite
• Over anxious
• Mixing with different friends
• Problems with memory, concentration
• Slurred speech
• Unusual smells (e.g. chemical) from clothing/body
• However be aware that not all such signs above are necessarily or exclusively linked to substance misuse

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

• Alcohol & Drugs Action Aberdeen – Helpline No – 01224  594700
• To access full version of this briefing and links to wider information, advice and support then please visit: http://www.hi-netgrampian.org/people-networks/aberdeen-city-public-health/health-promoting-schools/ (under ‘related documents’ bottom of page)