Helping young people to change

For young people facing issues with drugs, change is not something that can be achieved simply because they really hope to change. They must be in an environment supportive of change and conducive to their personal growth. 

Taking the opportunity to learn about the reasons behind the young person’s substance use and what their desired goal about their use is can help take steps towards changing it. Asking questions without judgment, getting the young person to explain what they get from their use and expressing that you’re concerned because it might not be a familiar topic are ways to start conversations with young people. 

Some families feel that they have asked all the questions and had all the conversations and nothing is changing. This can be a frustrating time for both young people and families as it can bring about conflict.  

Take a moment to reevaluate the areas that are causing you the most discomfort about your young person’s use and be realistic about their end goals can help shift things. Having a chat with someone from the YoDAA team to help guide you through this might be useful.  

• Is home safe and free of violence?
• Does a young person have an area of their home that is private and they are in control of?
• Is the home a place of encouragement?
• Is effective communication practiced and modelled? (Poor communication can actually create barriers to change!)
• Is the family something that a young person can draw strength from?
• Do adult family members seek help when they need it?
• Is responsible use of alcohol (or other substances) modelled?

It is worth exploring these questions when trying to promote change. Concerned about a young person not wanting to change? Take a look at our video and remember you can talk to YoDAA for more info, advice and support if you need.