For Parents

Substances are everywhere in our community- they're in grocery stores, in convenience stores, in many medicine cabinets, and available through friends and peers. 

So, if you can't remove all substances from your community, how can you keep your child safe from them?

The answer is surprisingly simple. 

1. Talk to your child about substances. Make sure they understand the consequences of use, both inside your family and in your community. Your discussions help, even if it doesn't seem like it.

2. Set clear boundaries around substance use- Understand that substances like alcohol, cannabis, and vapes have permanently harmful effects on your child's development and health even if you allow your child to use them under your supervision.

3. Ensure that substances are not easily available to your child. Keep prescription medications locked in a safe place, and turn leftover medication in to the Coalition's next Med Take-Back event. Do not provide money for your child to buy vape cartridges, or buy alcohol or cannabis for your child.

4. Nurture your child's emotional well-being. Talk to them about how they're feeling and what problems they're facing. Nourish them with recognition and positive attention for making good choices. 

If your child is struggling with their mental health, you can support them by helping them make an appointment at a school counseling center, reach out to Discovery Behavioral Health for low or no cost mental health services, or dial 988 for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.