Strong relationships and open communication are key to supporting growth, resilience, and recovery – whether it's guiding teens or helping a loved one struggling with substance use. This month's resources offer practical tools to foster connection and encourage healthy choices.
Teen peer influence and guidance on healthy friendships
How teens can benefit from having a mentor
Talking to a loved one about addiction treatment
1. Teen Peer Influence: A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Friendships and Substance Use Prevention
This article explains the powerful impact of peer relationships on teens – both in terms of risk (substance use, secrecy, behavioral changes) and opportunity (emotional growth, belonging, motivation). It offers parents practical tools to:
Guide teen friendships
Recognize warning signs in friendships
Build open, judgment-free communication
Set clear expectations and boundaries
Key Insight:Healthy peer connections help teens thrive, and parents can guide these relationships through active involvement, strong communication, and supportive boundaries.
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2. How Mentors Can Help Build Confidence and Reduce Risks of Substance Use
Learn how a mentor – whether a teacher, coach, community leader, or family friend – can be a life-changing presence for teens. Mentors help:
Boost confidence and self-esteem
Reduce the likelihood of substance use and depressive symptoms
Improve academic performance and mental health
Strengthen coping, life skills, and problem-solving abilities
Key Insight: Having just one trusted adult outside the immediate family can make teens significantly less likely to engage in risky behaviors and more likely to flourish.
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3. Motivating without Pushing: How to Talk to a Loved One about Addiction Treatment
Talking to a loved one who resists the idea of substance use treatment can be hard. As caregivers, friends, and family members, we often want to jump in and fix everything. But the truth is, persuading someone to get help takes patience, preparation, and understanding.
Watch this video to learn strategies for having open, compassionate conversations that encourage change – without pushing too hard or damaging the relationship.
Key Insight:An effective way to encourage someone to try treatment is by connecting it to their personal goals as well as identifying and finding solutions for any perceived barriers.
