A couple weeks ago we introduced our first spotlight topic: talking with teens about overdose. We talked about ways to broach the subject smoothly and strategies to help with getting your teen to open up about the substance use they may see at their school. But children don’t always open up right away. They may not share personal details even after having multiple conversations with you, and it’s important to be accepting of that. It means that we need to continue to build a trusting and collaborative environment moving forward.
One key step is to normalize ongoing check-ins. Let your teen know that the conversation isn’t over, and that’s a good thing. A simple, low-pressure “How are things feeling at school lately?” or “Have you heard anything new about substances going around?” keeps the door open without demanding disclosure. When teens see that you’re consistent, calm, and not easily shocked, they’re more likely to come to you when something does feel important or urgent. Even if they shrug or say “nothing,” they’re still learning that you’re a safe person to talk to.
It’s also helpful to focus on skills, not just information. Beyond knowing what overdose is, teens benefit from understanding how to look out for friends, when to get help, and why seeking help is always the right choice. Reinforce that their safety, and the safety of the people they care about, matters more than avoiding trouble or embarrassment. There is also plenty of room to talk about mental health and building self-care skills with your teen. Taking a more holistic approach to substance misuse can communicate your goal of working together to ensure your child is happy, rather than controlling them.
Talking with teens about overdose is not a one-time task with a clear finish line. It’s an ongoing process of listening, learning, and showing up. By continuing to lead with trust and care, we can help young people feel supported, informed, and better prepared to keep themselves and others safe.
