How to Prevent Adolescent Substance Abuse

Dealing with peer pressure to experiment with drugs, alcohol and tobacco is an unfortunate yet common part of adolescent life. Three substances account for the majority of substance use and abuse in teens: tobacco, alcohol and marijuana, according to associate professor of child and adolescent psychiatry Richard Gallagher, in an article for the Child Study Center at the NYU Langone Medical Center. Teens might feel compelled to experiment with these substances for a number of reasons, including a need for social acceptance or because of curiosity. By taking a proactive approach in your teen's life, you can help prevent adolescent substance abuse.

Instructions

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      Educate your teen about the risks of substance use. Explain that some teens who decide to experiment with drugs, alcohol or tobacco may develop a substance abuse problem, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. The Mayo Clinic advises focusing on how substance abuse can affect things that are important to your teen, such as appearance, health and the opportunity to drive.

    • 2

      Role model appropriate behaviors in front of your teen. If your teen sees you abusing drugs, tobacco or alcohol, she might feel this is acceptable behavior. Richard Gallagher of the Child Study Center points out that this does not mean you should never have a drink in front of your teen -- but you should moderate your own use.

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      Talk to your teen about ways he can resist peer pressure, the Mayo Clinic suggests. Have an open, honest discussion that encourages him to think of ways he can say no to peers if they pressure him to experiment with drugs, alcohol or tobacco. Let your teen know that it's OK to politely refuse and say, "No thanks." If he thinks his friends won't accept this answer, ask him if these are friends he truly wants in his life.

    • 4

      Explain your expectations to your teen. Tell her you trust that she will make smart decisions. Inform her about the consequences she will face if she decides to experiment with drugs, alcohol or tobacco. Ensure that your consequences are reasonable, advises the Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company. For example, you might decide she will be grounded for a week if you smell tobacco on her breath, or that she will lose her driving privileges if she decides to drink.

    • 5

      Recognize potential warning signs of a substance abuse problem, including changes in behavior, appearance and attitude, Cigna says. For example, observe whether your child has lost weight, has a new social circle, acts disrespectful or has had a decline in academic performance.

    • 6

      Intervene immediately if you think your teen has a substance abuse problem. Any use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs is a problem unless it is a one-time event, says Cigna. Arrange an evaluation with a health-care professional, such as a medical doctor, physician assistant or nurse practitioner -- they are specially trained to recognize the signs of substance abuse problems and can recommend an appropriate course of treatment.

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