Tips from Experts
We asked experts on the health effects and risks of alcohol and other drug use on young people for their recommendations on how to have effective conversations, set up support systems, and other topics that will be helpful for parents and caregivers. Here is what they had to say:
Your college student is still listening
Dr. Jason Kilmer, Associate Professor at University of Washington, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, reminds parents and caregivers of the influence they have on their children’s lives even during their college years.
Modeling behvaior and building a support system
Dr. Jasmin Zavala, Medical Director and Adolescent Medicine, Physician at Sea Mar Community Health Centers, shares some recommendations for parents on connecting with their teens, modeling healthy behaviors, and building a support system to help you both.
Apoye a su adolescente
La Dra. Jasmín Zavala, directora médica y especialista en medicina adolescente en los Centros de Salud Comunitarios Sea Mar, recomienda a los padres de familia que hagan preguntas cuando hablen con su adolescente, escuchen lo que están experimentando y trabajen juntos para crear un plan que los ayude a tomar decisiones saludables.
Additional resources from our partners:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Videos on the do's and don'ts of talking to kids about underage drinking, and how to answer tough questions. Information is available in English and Spanish.
- Partnership for Drug-Free Kids: Talking is one of the most powerful tools parents can use to connect with and protect their kids. Here are two online toolkits to make it easier: Parent Talk Kit and How to prevent drug use at every age.
- MADD’s Power of Parents: It’s Your Influence is a new web resource by Mothers Against Drunk Driving where parents can find proven strategies for preventing underage drinking at home and in their community.