What can parents do to assist in the prevention of drug use problems?

Model responsible use of drugs (parents are very powerful role models)

• Use alcohol moderately.
• Do not drink and drive.
• Serve alternatives to alcohol at parties (your own and your children’s).
• Serve food when alcohol is served.
• Be a non-smoker.
• If you are a smoker, attempt to give up, and explain to your children why you are quitting (ask for their help).
• If you can’t quit, smoke outside.
• If you smoke, never ask your children to light your cigarette for you.
• Report shopkeepers who sell cigarettes to minors.
• Use medicines according to the directions.
• Discuss use of medicines and analgesics with your children.
• Store medicines in a locked cabinet out of reach of children.

Discuss the topic of drug use with your children

• Make your views and attitudes clear; be honest and avoid double standards.
• Encourage your children to express their views and take them seriously.
• Discuss smoking with your children before the age at which they are likely to experiment (before 12 years of age).
• Ensure that your children understand that the majority of teenagers and adults do NOT smoke.
• Ensure that your children know several ways to refuse offers of cigarettes, alcohol or other drugs and get them to practise.
• Ensure that your children know of alternative ways to get home from parties if the driver has been drinking.
• Discuss ways to reduce the risks associated with drinking alcohol.
• Discuss your views about illegal drugs (don’t lecture).
• Focus on the short-term problems of drug use (the long-term problems are not as relevant).

Set clear family rules about drug use

• For example, this house is a Smoke-Free Zone.
• Teenagers do look for limits and stability, so apply your family rules and consequences firmly and consistently.

Teach your children first aid skills

• Make sure that your children know what to do if someone collapses after using alcohol or other drugs.

Contact PDIS (Parent Drug Information Service) 9442 5050 or ADIS (Alcohol And Drug Information Service) 9442 5000 for further information.