Over the next 5 weeks we are going to be posting 1 tip a week on how to discuss substance use and gambling with your kids.

Tip # 4 “How to Intervene”. ***

Connecting with children on the topic of substance use and other addictions like gambling can be tricky. The goal is to encourage transparency and trust, while also wanting to articulate clear messages that help to keep them safe. Teens who engage in substance use or other addictive behaviors regularly and/or who have had a consequence associated with addictive behaviors may be on course for developing a substance use disorder. A professional assessment is the best place to start. You can find a detailed list of warnings signs on the NYS Office of Addiction Supports and Services website. If an assessment is needed, you can start with your pediatrician, who can help refer you to a specialist as necessary.

Seek to Intervene

Please come back next week for tip # 5 in talking with your children which is, “How Family Plays a Role”

***Harvard Health Blog

August 16, 2018

By Sharon Levy, MD, MPH, Contributor, and

Siva Sundaram, BA, Contributor