FOR CARING ADULTS
Youth Need Our Support to Live Above the HighAdolescence: A Time to Guide
Teens are shaping their habits and choices, which can impact their future. Unfortunately, many are facing increased mental health challenges. As a caring adult, your role in supporting their well-being is crucial. But remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup—taking care of your own mental health is key to helping them thrive.
Building Resilience
Resilience is our ability to bounce back stronger after setbacks and challenging situations. It is our ability to manage stress and function well even when faced with adversity and trauma. Resilience isn’t something we’re born with; it’s learned. One of the most effective ways to help teens build resilience is by being a consistent, caring adult they can rely on. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or coach, your support can make all the difference.
Tips for Raising Resilient Teens
Foster Connections
Encourage involvement in activities like clubs or sports to build strong, positive relationships.
Encourage Volunteering
Helping others gives teens a sense of purpose and community.
Maintain a Routine
A predictable schedule promotes security, responsibility, and healthy habits.
Model Self-Care
Teach the importance of eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep.
Laugh Together
Humor can reduce stress and strengthen bonds.
Set Goals
Help them focus on small, achievable goals to build confidence.
Support Positive Self-View
Praise their efforts and help them overcome setbacks with optimism.
Embrace Change
Teach adaptability to help them navigate life’s transitions.
Stay Hopeful
Help teens see beyond their current struggles, reinforcing that better days lie ahead.
Have Fun
Play is essential for relaxation and creativity—don’t overlook it!
By staying involved, modeling healthy behaviors, and fostering a positive environment, you can help teens build the resilience they need to thrive.
Youth Substance Use
Why It MattersTeens are particularly vulnerable to addiction because their brains are still developing. Early substance use, including nicotine, alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs, can lead to lifelong consequences. Research shows that teens who start using substances before age 15 are 6.5 times more likely to develop an addiction. As caring adults, your support can significantly reduce the risk of substance use.
The Right Approach
Scare tactics don’t work, and the old “just say no” messaging may not be enough. Teens need strong role models and solid reasons to avoid drugs and alcohol. Your influence matters more than you might think—when teens know their parents disapprove of substances, they’re less likely to use them. Be open, set clear expectations and consequences, and model the behavior you want to see.
Risk and Protective Factors
Certain factors, like peer pressure or stress, increase the risk of youth substance use. But protective factors, like strong family bonds and involvement in activities, can help reduce those risks. It’s about helping teens build resilience by reinforcing the positive.
Factors that put youth at risk for substance use:
Parental alcohol or drug use
Experiencing or witnessing violence or trauma
Mental health issues
Peer drug use
Low academic achievement
Drug availability in the neighborhood
Factors that decrease risk for youth substance use:
Parental disapproval of substance use
Engagement in healthy recreational activities
Good coping skills
Positive relationships with peers
Parental monitoring and support
Strong bonds with family, school, community
Talking to Teens About Drugs
How to Start the ConversationTalking to teens about substance use can feel challenging, but it’s critical. Teens whose parents talk to them about nicotine, alcohol, marijuana, or other drug risks are less likely to use them.
Communication Tips:
Be clear about your views
Stay positive, calm, and relaxed
Listen more than you talk
Ask what they already know
Be honest—stick to facts, not scare tactics
Keep your points brief and simple
Show respect and put yourself in their shoes
Drop everything when they’re ready to talk
Conversation Starters:
"If there’s drinking at the party, what will you do?"
"What do you think about teen marijuana use?"
"How would you handle it if friends were pressuring you to try vaping?"
Responding if Your Child is Using Drugs
If you suspect your teen is using substances, start by talking with other adults in your child’s life. Agree on a plan and set clear expectations, like curfews or limiting time with certain friends. Then, have a calm, honest conversation with your teen. Let them know you’re concerned because you care about their safety, and be firm about the seriousness of the issue. They may become upset but remind them you’re doing what’s best for their well-being.
Take care of your own mental health too. This can be a difficult time, so lean on your coping strategies and seek support if needed.
Finding Help for Your Teen
If you’re concerned about your teen’s substance use, seek professional help immediately. A doctor, therapist, or addiction specialist can provide guidance on next steps. Look for programs specifically designed for teens, which focus on both recovery and building positive habits for the future. Family counseling can also help everyone navigate the challenges together.
