Young People

As a parent of a teenager, drugs can feel like a daunting topic to discuss. ReachOut spoke to Associate Professor Cath Chapman and Associate Professor Nicola Newton of the University of Sydney’s Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use to learn as much as possible about the best ways for parents to handle the issue.

This factsheet from Drug Aware shares strategies and tools to equip young people with the appropriate skills to successfully refuse drugs in various situations they may face as a teenager and young adult.

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What legislation covers the topic of young people and alcohol, and what does that legislation mean? Learn about youth and alcohol laws in this factsheet from Tasmania Police.

What is vaping? Why do people do it? How can you help a young person quit if they're vaping? Find the answers to these questions and more in this factsheet from the Australian Drug Foundation.

Risk-taking is a key part of adolescent development. It helps young people develop their identity, build experience and gain peer approval.And for some young people, risk-taking will mean experimentation with alcohol and other drugs.

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Kids in Focus is a state-wide voluntary program that can assist families with children up to 18 years of age who are impacted by their parents use of alcohol or other drugs. It provides children and families with the tools to thrive and succeed, as individuals and as a family; supporting parents in making positive changes.

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I need to talk to someone I care for about their drug use for the first time, how do I have the conversation?

Are you unsure how to start a conversation about alcohol use with teenagers? Or have questions about the most effective way to handle this topic? Informed by the latest research on prevention strategies, this webinar will provide practical advice that will be valuable for parents, school staff and others working with teenagers.

Many parents worry about whether their son or daughter is using illegal drugs and what they should do about it. Parents can play a role in keeping young people safe from the risks of all substance misuse. Learn more in this factsheet from Parent Link.

This resource is for family or friends of young people aged 12-25 years. It aims to: answer common questions about alcohol and other drugs (AOD), provide practical information about what you can do if you are worried about your young person using AOD, and  give guidance on supporting a young person who is experiencing problems related to AOD.

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This information booklet is part of a series developed for teachers, parents and students. The Parent booklet was developed to provide:

• Accurate evidence-based information about illegal drugs, their use and effects;
• Guidance about how to talk to a young person about illegal drugs, and ways that parents can protect against drug use and related harms;
• Information about how to help someone who has taken an illegal drug.

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When a child needs your help, get the help you need. Our advice and referral line is the first point of contact for child wellbeing and safety.

We have a shared network of support. With your help, we can deliver earlier intervention and better outcomes for children and their families.

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