helping you support the young people in your life.
Connected Conversations
Kids and teens today face more pressure than ever, and as a parent or caregiver, it can be hard to know what’s normal and what’s a sign your child might be struggling. You’re not alone. Connected Conversations gives you simple tools to recognize early warning signs, talk openly with youth, and help them make healthy choices.
If you’re worried about a young person right now or want to feel more confident in supporting them, this page is a great place to start.
When discussing difficult topics, try to remain calm, even if you hear something upsetting. Reacting with anger, shame or raised voices can shut down communication.
Youth often begin experimenting with substances as early as ages 11 or 12.
Signs a Child May Be Struggling
Children and teens don’t always say when something is wrong, but changes in behavior can be important clues. You may notice things like:
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Increased irritability, anger, or withdrawing from family
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Losing interest in hobbies or activities they usually enjoy
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Trouble sleeping, eating, or concentrating
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Declining grades or school avoidance
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Sudden changes in appearance or hygiene
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Talking about feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or “not like myself”
When to Reach Out
If something feels “off,” trust your instincts. A simple, supportive conversation can make a big difference.
Try: “I’ve noticed you’ve seemed a little down lately. I care about you. How are you feeling?”
And then just pause. Let them talk.
Connected Conversations
Why Teens Sometimes Take Risks
The teen years are full of big emotions and big changes. Their brains are still developing, especially the parts that help with judgment, impulse control, and planning ahead.
This means teens may:
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Act quickly without thinking
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Follow peer pressure more easily
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Experiment with risky behaviors, including alcohol or drugs
It’s not because they don’t care, it’s because they’re still learning how to navigate the world. Adults play an important role in providing guidance, structure, and steady support.
Substance Use: What Parents Should Know
Most adults with a substance use disorder began using during their teens or early twenties. Early use can:
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Increase the risk of addiction later on
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Raise the chance of accidents, injuries, or unsafe situations
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Affect mood, sleep, and school performance
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Interfere with healthy brain development
Who might be at a higher risk?
A young person may be more vulnerable if they’re dealing with:
Anxiety, depression, or emotional stress
Bullying or social pressure
Trauma or grief
Friends who use substances
Tips for starting honest conversations
How to Talk With Your Child
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Choose a relaxed moment, like in the car or on a walk.
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Ask open-ended questions.
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Listen more than you speak.
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Stay calm, even if you’re surprised by what they say.
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Avoid lectures or scare tactics. They shut conversations down.
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Keep it ongoing. One talk is good. Many talks are better.
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Small, frequent check-ins build trust over time.
What You Can Do Right Now
Stay Connected
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Spend one-on-one time together
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Know their friends and where they spend time
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Notice changes in your child’s mood or behavior
Keep Communication Open
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Let them talk without jumping to solutions
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Share your own feelings in simple, age-appropriate ways
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Praise their strengths and healthy choices
Create a Safer Environment
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Set clear expectations about alcohol and drug use
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Keep medications and alcohol stored safely
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Monitor social media and screen time
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Work together on a “safe exit plan” if they’re ever in an uncomfortable situation
More Places to Find Help
Here are a few trusted organizations you can turn to for additional information on youth mental health and substance use prevention.
You’re Not Alone. We’re Here to Help
If you’re concerned or just want more guidance, LRADAC’s Prevention team is here to support you. We can help answer questions, connect you to resources, and walk with you through next steps.
Ashley Bodiford, MPH, MS, CSPS
Director of Prevention, LRADAC
Email: abodiford@lradac.org
Phone: 803.726.9443