Illegal drugs

By the time your children are teenagers they are likely to have heard about or come across at least some illegal drugs.

To help them make responsible decisions it's very important for you to talk with them openly about the issues. Discuss the pressures they may face to try drugs, and the risks of doing so. Make it clear that the majority of teenagers are not taking drugs.

Helpful tips

• Talk about drugs with your children well before they are teenagers.
• Get them involved in positive activities such as sport, music, art and youth groups.
• Many teenagers try drugs because they think everyone else is. Discuss this. Talk about what to do if someone puts the pressure on.
• A change in behaviour or moods may be a sign of drug use. If you find out or suspect your teenager is using drugs, don't panic. Accusing or arguing won't help things at all. Wait for a quiet time. Talk to them in a calm way and listen to what they have to say.
• For information on common drugs and their risks, visit the Alcohol Drug Helpline.
• The Alcohol Drug Helpline 0800 787 797 (10am to 10pm) offers excellent support, advice and information.