Today I’ll explain exactly what to do when you discover your teen is drinking, vaping, or using drugs. You’ll learn how to have a calm, connected conversation with your teen, how to understand why your teen is using substances, how to approach them with empathy instead of confrontation, and practical strategies to keep them safe while maintaining trust.

I also review the critical mistakes we parents make in this situation, and how to set boundaries without pushing them away. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate this scary situation with science-backed strategies that protect both your teen's wellbeing and your connection with them.

Series on Substance Use episodes 175 through 184

The National Institute on Drug Abuse: "The Adolescent Brain and Substance Use"

Playlist for the Fundamentals of Parenting Teens on YouTube (episodes 234 - 241)

U.S. DEA's Drug Emoji Code (social media)

Signs of Drug Use in Teens (Partnership to End Addiction)

Where to Search for Drugs or Drug Paraphernalia  (scroll down)

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