Teens and sometimes younger kids use substances for many reasons. They might drink alcohol or use other substances because they see others doing it and are curious. They may also feel pressured by friends.
Alcohol is legal for adults in most places and is often advertised as fun and exciting. The same goes for tobacco products like vapes and cigarettes. Many adults use alcohol and tobacco to relax and have fun in social situations. But these substances can also be dangerous and habit-forming, especially for kids and teens. They might use them to feel better when they are anxious, sad, or lonely.
Other dangerous substances include marijuana (like cannabis, edibles, and vapes), hallucinogens (like LSD, mushrooms, and ketamine), sedatives (like Xanax and Ambien), stimulants (like Adderall and cocaine), opioids (like heroin and Percocet), steroids, inhalants (like glue), and date rape drugs (like roofies). Even though these are illegal or need a doctor’s prescription, kids can still get them, and they are bad for health.
People who use these substances a lot might be trying to “solve a problem.” These substances can make them feel relaxed, help ease boredom, fit in with others, escape pain, or get rid of bad memories. It’s important for parents to understand why their child might find substances appealing and to help prevent negative consequences. When substance use is severe, it’s hard for any parent to handle it alone, so professional help may be needed.
What is typical use?
None. There is no good or acceptable amount of alcohol or substance use for kids or teens.
Even though kids and teens are not supposed to use alcohol and other substances, they might be curious, exposed to them, or pressured to use them. Kids with anxiety, mood issues, behaviour problems, or trouble paying attention are more likely to try alcohol or substances.
Most substances are harmful, especially in large amounts. Young people react differently than adults. For instance, they may enjoy alcohol more, leading to overuse and losing control. Their brains are very sensitive to alcohol, which can harm their health and development.
Using alcohol or substances might seem to work at first (like reducing anxiety or making fun moments better). But this can lead to more use over time and cause problems with health, school, and relationships. It can also make kids take more risks.
When should I be concerned?
Alcohol or substance use in kids or teens should always worry parents. The longer they use something, the more dangerous it becomes.
But how do you know if a child is using alcohol or substances? You might find bottles or bags, but you can also look for changes in behaviour, emotions, and actions. For example, smoking can cause coughing, while using stimulants can cause insomnia and weight loss.
Here are some signs that a child or teen might be having serious substance use problems:
- Changes in behaviour, daily habits, and friends
- Mood swings, irritability, or arguing more
- Acting hyperactive or restless
- Being lazy, sleeping more, or being unmotivated
- Falling grades, skipping school, and bad performance
- Losing interest in hobbies or activities
- Comments from teachers or friends
- Having friends who use substances
- Smelling like alcohol or tobacco
- Trouble waking up or falling asleep in class
- Dangerous actions like fighting, driving under the influence, or risky sexual behaviour
- Isolating from friends or skipping school events
- Borrowing or stealing money or valuables
- Missing prescription drugs or alcohol
What can I do to help?
Parents know their children best. Here are some ways to address substance use:
- Family bonds. Build trust and respect. Set clear boundaries and watch their activities.
- Talk about it. Plan a conversation about substance use. Tell them ahead of time what you’ll talk about and explain your concerns and rules.
- Set rules. Clearly state your rules and what happens if they break them. Kids are safer when parents set limits.
- Explain why. Explain why using substances is bad. It can harm their judgment and lead to dangerous situations affecting school, relationships, and future opportunities.
- Speak kindly. Treat them with respect and explain things. Show good behaviour.
- Listen. Let them share their feelings and questions. This helps them be honest with you.
- Seek help. If your child has mental health issues, get help to reduce the risk of substance use.
What kind of professional support can I seek out?
If you think your child is already using substances, professional support can help. Catching it early is important.
Substance use that happens a lot, is intense, or affects their life might mean they have a Substance Use Disorder.
Talk to your child’s paediatrician or family doctor. They can refer you to other specialists, such as mental health professionals.
Mental health professionals can help both the child and the caregivers. They can work with you to support your child at home and in therapy.
Public services are also available at your local clinic.
When looking for affordable services, it may also be helpful to explore local non-governmental organisations which offer services to families.
Local universities may offer services to the public as part of professional training programmes.
Please don’t give up if you don’t have success in your first attempts at getting help. Go back to the services listed above and look at our online list for additional resources or support. Your child is worth the effort.
Where to find more information
For detailed information on mental health conditions, visit our guides for health professionals.