How to approach the summer holidays as a parent of a teen
Summer holiday is often a time when adolescents have more freedom, less supervision, later nights and increased peer influence. The HSE is highlighting evidence‑based advice to help parents reduce risks around alcohol and drug use.
1. What works for parents: Warm relationships, open communication and consistent boundaries are the strongest protective factors.
2. Rules: Evidence shows a small number of clear and consistently enforced rules work best.
3. Increased diversification of the drug market: New drugs have arrived in recent years. Many of these drugs are more potent than the past. When buying and using drugs, this creates more uncertainly about what is being consumed and increases risks. We can’t guarantee the contents, potency or health risks associated with products purchased in shops or online.
4. Supervised drinking myth: National and international evidence shows adolescents allowed to drink at home tend to drink more heavily elsewhere.
Prof. Bobby Smyth, HSE Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist discusses advice for parents here.
Resources for parents
The HSE has booklets, factsheets and online webinars to support parents on substance use prevention.
HSE Alcohol and Drugs Parents Guide
Inhalant awareness factsheet
Nitrous oxide awareness factsheet
‘Parents Matter’ webinars, providing practical advice for parents to deliver education and prevention can be watched online here.Social media awareness
Please find attached messages to share on local social media channels to create awareness among parents Supports available
Information and sign-posting towards services can be accessed via the HSE Drug & Alcohol helpline at 1800 459 459 Mon-Fri 9:30 – 5:00
Information for Parents
Inhalant Factsheet for Parents
Nitrous Oxide Factsheet
