Drugs and alcohol

By Michele O’Connor, mum of: Calum, 12, Millie, 9, Alfie, 7 and Tess, 4.

As the Family Planning Association launches a campaign highlighting the risks to sexual health caused by binge drinking, parents need to talk to their teens about a sensible approach to booze.

Do you know if your teen has tried their first drink yet – or been drunk? Chances are the answer’s yes. On average, UK children have their first alcoholic drink at 13 and, by just over 14, hundreds have been drunk for the first time.* A recent survey of 15 and 16 year olds carried out recently by the Drinkaware Trust**revealed that:

• 60% regard drinking as a normal part of growing up.
• Half of all 11 to 15-year-olds have already tried at least one alcoholic drink with their...

Parents told Parentline Plus how they dealt with the issue of alcohol and their children. 

"Allowing them to try small amounts of alcohol at home appears to take the novelty out of drink and seems better than banning alcohol completely. I have said to them if they want to try alcohol to do so when I am around. If there are any problems then at least I am on hand." 

"My daughter seems to have a very 'clean' view on drugs and sees cigarettes as drugs. Probably the stories of mum's raucous nights out have added to putting her off wanting to get drunk! I don't really know where she's got her 'sensible' views from but we do talk openly." 

"I think I've been really lucky with my daughter who is now 17. We've not had any strops or tantrums,...

Discovering that your child is taking drugs can leave you feeling worried, guilty and isolated. However, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone – many other parents will have found themselves in a similar position, and there’s lots of help available. Don’t blame yourself – there are lots of reasons why children become involved in drugs. This is not a sign that you’re a bad parent, and there is no reason why you should feel ashamed or try to hide the problem.

Drugs services, counselling services and self-help groups offer support to your child at any stage, whether or not they are ready to change their behaviour. If you feel there is a problem then don’t delay in seeking help

For more information visit the FRANK website, where you can find details...

I’ve discovered that my child is smoking cannabis – what are the risks associated with this drug?

Answer: Cannabis is the most widely used illegal drug in Britain. Smoking it can leave users feeling chilled out, optimistic and talkative. However, it also has hallucinogenic effects and can therefore lead to paranoia and anxiety. There’s also increasing evidence of a link between cannabis and mental health problems such as schizophrenia, while around 10% of users develop a psychological dependence on the drug. Heavy use can lead to concentration problems, while some users begin to feel tired all the time and lack motivation. It is a particularly risky drug for anyone with heart problems as it increases the heart rate and can affect blood pressure, and can also...