Talking to Your Teen about Drugs and Alcohol
Starting the conversation about drugs and alcohol with a teenager can feel intimidating, but it’s one of the most powerful ways parents can prevent substance use. Research shows that teens who talk openly with their parents about drugs and alcohol are less likely to misuse them. The goal is not a single lecture, but an ongoing dialogue built on empathy, honesty, and trust.
Choose the Right Time and Setting
Timing matters. The best conversations happen in relaxed, everyday moments — like driving to school, preparing dinner, or walking the dog. Teens are more likely to open up when they don’t feel pressured by a formal sit-down talk. Parents should avoid starting the conversation during times of conflict, stress, or immediately after finding out about a concerning behavior. Calm settings make it easier for teens to listen and respond.
Listen More Than You Lecture
Teenagers value being heard. Instead of delivering a long lecture, ask open-ended questions and let them share what they know or believe about substances. Listening without interrupting shows respect for their opinions and builds trust. When teens feel heard, they are more likely to be honest — even if what they share is difficult to hear.
Provide Facts, Not Fear
Scare tactics often backfire. Teens are savvy and can tell when information is exaggerated. Instead, share accurate, age-appropriate facts about the risks of drug and alcohol use. For example, explain how substances affect the developing teen brain, or how underage drinking increases the risk of accidents and poor decision-making. Giving teens credible information helps them make informed choices.
Make the Conversation Ongoing
One talk isn’t enough. Substance use prevention works best when parents maintain ongoing conversations. As teens grow and encounter new situations — like parties, peer pressure, or driving — parents should revisit the topic with updated guidance. Reassure your teen that they can always come to you with questions or concerns, no matter the circumstance.
Model Healthy Coping Skills
Parents are role models. Teens notice how adults handle stress, conflict, or disappointment. Demonstrating healthy coping skills — such as exercise, meditation, talking through problems, or seeking support — sends a stronger message than words alone. Modeling responsible behavior, including moderate or no alcohol use, reinforces the lessons parents want to teach.
Encourage Questions and Honesty
Let your teen know that no question is off-limits. If you don’t know the answer, research it together. Creating a safe space for curiosity helps teens feel comfortable coming back to you instead of relying on peers or the internet for information. Emphasize that honesty is valued — from both sides — and that the goal is understanding, not punishment.
Support for Families in Oklahoma City
At Teen Recovery Solutions (TRS), we know that prevention and recovery both begin at home. Parents who talk openly with their teens about drugs and alcohol play a critical role in reducing the risk of misuse. But when substance use does occur, families don’t have to face it alone.
TRS offers programs designed to involve the whole family in recovery, including:
Mission Academy High School — Oklahoma City’s only recovery high school, where teens can learn in a supportive, sober environment.
Family Support Services — counseling and parent education to strengthen communication and restore trust.
Peer Recovery Programs — giving teens safe spaces to connect and make healthy choices.
For parents searching “how to talk to my teen about drugs in Oklahoma City,” TRS provides both prevention resources and recovery support. Together, families can build resilience, strengthen bonds, and create healthier futures.
You can help teens and families in Oklahoma City start healthier conversations and build stronger paths to recovery.