As a parent, you play a key role in shaping your teen’s attitudes regarding substances. Although it may not always seem like it, you affect the decisions your teen makes. Teens say their parents influence their decisions. Try to be open, supportive, and involved.
If teens are going to use substances, they tend to do it when adults are not around. Know who your teen is with, what they are doing, and where they are.
Ongoing communication with your teen allows them to share their interests and areas of concern with you. Research suggests regular communication with your teen is linked to delayed substance use.
Setting clear expectations helps create an environment where rules are respected.
Teens are watching what you do as a parent and are influenced by your behaviours. Think about your own opinions on the use of substances and what messages they are sending your teen.
A supportive parent-teen relationship characterized by closeness and caring can help delay when youth first try substances.
In Ontario, it is illegal to drink alcohol under the age of 19.
It is also illegal to possess prescription pain medications that are not prescribed for you. Once cannabis is legalized, there will be restrictions on its use and access, including age.