Frank talk about drug use is necessary to reduce risky behaviour

While discussion on drug use is hard, a frank talk between parents and child can help raise the child’s awareness about the dangers of drug use and reduce risky behaviour. — 123rf.com

A PERSON'S first experience with alcohol, tobacco, marijuana or other drugs such as MDMA (also known as ecstasy) often occurs in adolescence. The signs of drug use aren’t always easily recognisable, so many parents can’t tell whether their child is a habitual user.

What’s more, with the onset of puberty, they exercise less control as a child’s role in the family changes. For parents this often means ”letting go” and accepting that their influence over the child’s decisions has diminished.