Open the door to real conversations about underage drinking and drug use by talking face to face – often.  Listen. Take advantage of everyday opportunities to discuss teen substance use with your child, such as while watching TV, riding in a car, or eating a meal together. This is a conversation that needs to happen regularly and often.

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Conversation Starters

Talking about underage drinking and drug use is not always easy. Here are some questions to help get the conversation flowing between you and your teen.

• A recent survey of Iroquois County teens showed that many twelfth graders don’t think that their parents see any harm in drinking. Why do you think those teens felt this way?
• When you and your friends get together, what do you consider to be a fun time? What are some local activities/hangouts that you would suggest to a teen who is new to town/looking for entertainment?
• I know the teen years can be pretty stressful. What do you think is the hardest? How do you cope? What would you tell a friend who is having trouble coping?
• What are some possible things you could say if you are offered alcohol, marijuana, or tobacco? (No, thanks...It's not worth the trouble.  I'm having fun without it.)
• If you are ever in a peer pressure-related situation that you need help getting out of, what can you do? (Call or text parent. Say no. Walk away.)
• I heard in the news that (a famous person) is struggling with drug/alcohol-related problems. As a person of influence, they are setting an example. What kind of example do you hope to set for those who look up to you?
• I read how harmful alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco can be for a teenager. Do you know some of the negative effects these substances can have on a teen? (Negative effects of alcohol include: increased risk of addiction/suicide/sexual assaults, brain damage, problems with school work and behavior, etc.  Negative side effects of marijuana or tobacco can include: increased risk of addiction, lack of self-control, learning issues, trouble concentrating, and mood changes.)
• Did you know that alcohol is actually a depressant? Although individuals who are drinking can at first appear to be happy and care-free, this feeling does not last. In fact, alcohol can leave people feeling angry, sad, or depressed.
• What do you hope to accomplish in the future? Do you think that drinking and drug use might keep you from achieving these plans?