On this page, we’ve got tips for talking to your child about alcohol and drugs. We also outline where you can find help if you’re worried about your child’s drug use.

It is not unusual for teenagers and young adults to experiment, test boundaries and take some risks. Drinking alcohol and trying drugs is one of the ways in which some young people do this. It is common for teenagers to drink alcohol at some point. A smaller number of young people will try illegal drugs such as cannabis. There are a number of reasons why a young person may experiment with cannabis:

• it makes them feel good in the moment
• it’s a way of having fun or socialising
• they are curious and want to test boundaries or try new things
• they want to fit in with a social group or feel pressure to do it
• it makes them feel more confident
• they want to distract from difficult thoughts or feelings

As a parent or carer, it’s important to talk to your child or young person about drugs. By doing this, you can help them to understand the risks and support them to make safe and healthy choices. In this section we will include links guide, about where you can get help if you’re worried about your child’s drug use.

Understanding the law and the risks
Drugs such as cannabis and alcohol are illegal for anyone of any age to have or use.

You can find out more about the law around drugs and alcohol on the Government’s website:

• having and using drugs
• alcohol and young people

When someone takes drugs, there is always risk involved. Using alcohol or drugs affects our judgement and decision-making. This can increase the risk of getting into dangerous situations. There is also always a risk of poisoning, having a bad reaction, or drinking or taking too much.
You can find more information about the risks around cannabis drinking alcohol, smoking, vaping and taking illegal drugs on the Frank website. Frank also has advice about staying safe from drink spiking.

How can drugs and alcohol affect mental health?

Drugs and alcohol can have different effects on a young person’s mental health. In the short-term, a young person’s mood might change while they’re drinking or taking drugs. They may feel happy, excited or relaxed. Or they may feel low, worried or on-edge. Afterwards, they might feel tired, anxious or a little confused.

Over the longer-term, misusing drugs or alcohol can lead to serious mental health issues. Teenagers and young adults may be at greater risk of this because their brains are still developing. For example, some research shows that young people who use cannabis may be at greater risk of developing psychosis. You can find more information about the mental health risks associated with specific drugs on the links below.

Frank – Is an easy to navigate website that supports parents and young people access relevant information about a range of drug related queries

YoungMinds – is the UK’s leading charity working towards a world where no young person feels alone with their mental health

NSPCC – has reviewed the most popular social networks, apps and games used by children. They have prepared a guide that will inform you about each and steps you can take to make your child’s internet use safer.

Childline – Support, advice and guidance suitable for children to view with parents.