
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: https://www.hi-netgrampian.scot.nhs.uk/people-networks/aberdeen-city-public-health-wellbeing-team/health-promoting-schools/