Asking your teen about their day may often result in a one-word answer like “fine” or "ok”. Trying to get any discussion going can be frustrating to say the least. So, if you can’t get your teen to open up about their day, how do you get them to talk about drugs?

PHOTO CREDIT - Eastern Ontario Health Unit

Cornwall - Nov. 2, 2011 - Asking your teen about their day may often result in a one-word answer like “fine” or "ok”.

Trying to get any discussion going can be frustrating to say the least. So, if you can’t get your teen to open up about their day, how do you get them to talk about drugs?

To help you get the discussion started with your teen, Health Canada recommends the following tips:

- Think first. Act second. Try to stay clear and focused and don't get too emotional. Keep an open mind.
- Keep an eye on your teen's behaviour. Ask them everyday what they are doing and don't be afraid to set limits such as curfews.
- Talk regularly and talk often. Many "mini-conversations" about drugs are better than long boring lectures.
- Keep the conversation positive and upbeat rather than waiting for an opportunity to criticize your teen for bad behaviour.
- Take advantage of "teachable moments" to discuss drug use with your teen. Teachable moments can happen while driving in the car, at the dinner table while discussing a situation at school or a current event in the news.
- Eat dinner together as often as possible. The family dinner provides one effective way to strengthen your communication with your teen*.
- Be informed about drugs. Download a free copy of Talking With Your Teen About Drugs at www.drugprevention.gc.ca

The Eastern Ontario Health Unit also understands that sometimes teens just want to be able to find information, to ask questions or to find out where they can turn for help. That’s why, in consultation with local teens, the EOHU recently launched www.MEmag.ca, a site that deals with a number of issues ranging from drugs to nutrition.

The tools are now in your hands. Start the conversation today.

*Source: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hc-ps/pubs/adp-apd/talk-aborder/index-eng.php