Adolescents and Drugs:
How to Talk About Substance Use

Adolescence is a pivotal stage marked by significant changes and a search for identity. Between the desire for independence, peer pressure, and emotional upheaval, some young people may be exposed to risky behaviours, including substance use. Understanding this reality is essential in order to respond in a thoughtful and appropriate way.

This page provides clear guidance to help you better understand addiction, recognize warning signs, and stay informed about trends among youth. It also highlights practical approaches to foster open communication, maintain trust, and support adolescents with care and compassion—especially in a context where social media strongly influences their perceptions and choices.

Webinar

 

This webinar provides practical tools to better understand substance use among adolescents and how to address the topic with them. Using an accessible, non-judgmental approach, it covers warning signs, risk factors, and communication strategies that encourage open and constructive dialogue.

You can view the full presentation and watch the webinar recording below to deepen your understanding and support you in your role as a parent or professional.

Play Video

Want to open the discussion with your teenager?

Here is some special content to help him make a decision.

Additional content

Adolescent and Young Adult Programs (14-21)

Quebec – Laurentians

For youth from Western Quebec

New Brunswick, Cassidy Lake

For youth from the Atlantic provinces

Quebec – Chaudière-Appalaches

For francophone youth from Eastern Quebec