
Hey There, Parents!
Parents and caregivers play an important role in helping young people make healthy, substance-free choices. You don’t have to have all the answers, having open conversations, staying informed, and creating a supportive environment can make a meaningful difference.
Our resources provide trusted, practical information to help you understand the challenges young people face, recognize potential risks, and feel more confident talking with your child about alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, and other substances.
Whether you’re looking for conversation starters, prevention strategies, or resources to support your family, you’re in the right place. Together, we can help our youth build the skills, confidence, and connections they need to thrive substance-free.
Teen Co-Occuring Disorders
Teenagers battling with mental health challenges often meet the criteria for more than one mental health disorder, including substance use disorders. This is referred to as dual diagnosis, or co-occurring disorders, and treating all conditions simultaneously is crucial to long-term recovery.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 60% of people who misuse substances also have a mental disorder.
The human brain is still developing well into a person’s 20s, and many mental illnesses develop during this period. This is also when the brain is most vulnerable to damage from drug abuse.
