How do you tell your teen not to drink or use weed… while also letting them know they can let you know if they’ve made a bad choice? It can feel impossible to balance rules with approachability. In this episode, psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and journalist Reena Ninan unpack how to have open, judgment-free conversations about alcohol and marijuana--conversations that keep kids safe and keep communication flowing.
Substance use among teens can feel scary and overwhelming, especially with today’s high-potency marijuana and the social pressure to experiment. Dr. Lisa shares science-based guidance that helps parents know when to start these talks, what messages really matter, and how to model healthy behavior at home.
💡 YOU’LL LEARN:
- Why it’s best to start the substance conversation early — ideally around 7th grade
- How to frame the discussion around safety instead of punishment or judgment
- What to say about the risks of alcohol and marijuana for the developing brain
- How to respond if your teen says, “But you drink,” or “Everyone does it”
- How to keep communication open so your teen knows they can always call you, no matter what
Warm, practical, and grounded in real science, this episode gives parents a roadmap for navigating one of the hardest (and most important) conversations you’ll ever have.
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Episode keywords: teen substance use, weed, alcohol, parenting advice, teen safety
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