It's not always easy to talk to your teen about anything, much less a subject as touchy as using drugs. But there are a number of things that parents can do to reduce the chances of their teen using and to keep them from continuing if they have started.

Your Teen's Drinking Starts With You

First step to stopping your teen from drug use, begins with you and your actions. Your children watch you and want to emulate you and your actions. If you joke about drugs or drink excessively, if you make it seem like using alcohol or drugs is the only way to enjoy yourself, then your teen will absorb that and reflect it in her actions. Instead, limit your own drinking and provide nonalcoholic beverages with meals and parties.

Communicate

Communication is essential. If your teen feels safe talking to you then you have a better chance of weighing in on her choice of whether or not to use drugs. Encourage her to avoid using completely and let her know that if she gets into a situation where everyone around her is using that she can call you. The ability to call you without fear of repercussions could be the difference between her getting in the car with an impaired driver and coming home safely.

Strategize

There are a number of other things you can do to help keep your teen from using drugs. These include:

• Watch for signs of depression, anxiety, loneliness or stress. Your teen may want to 'escape' from problems in her life by using. Intercede and help her find non-drug solutions.
• Know what's in your medicine cabinet and keep potentially addictive painkillers out of sight and out of reach.
• Know what your teen is watching on TV and online. These can provide clues to your teen's state of mind and intentions.
• Remind her that she is a strong individual and her own person. She doesn't have to do what everyone else does. Let her know that rather than trying to fit in with everyone else, her friends should try to fit in with her.