Talking to your child about substance abuse could create a potentially awkward or caustic environment in your home. Your child could feel awkward about the conversation, and annoyed that you're broaching the subject. That's why writing a letter is a gentler approach to beginning the conversation. By writing a heartfelt letter to your child about your concerns, you start a dialog by giving your child a chance to absorb the information. Write a letter that is informative, cautionary and complimentary to let your child know that you care.
Step 1
Begin your letter with praise for your child's recent behavior, suggests the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Even if you haven't been getting along well as of late, it's important to entice your child to read the rest of the letter by starting with praise and encouragement. Think of something that your child has done recently that you're proud of, or just include a few lines about how much you love and appreciate his contributions to the family.
Step 2
Write about some of your experiences with substance abuse. Not only does this give you and your child an even playing field, it may help you to recall how you felt about drugs and alcohol in your youth, which can help you better understand your child's position, notes FamilyEducation website. Explain that you understand how tempting drugs and alcohol can be, because you were once a child, too.
Step 3
Include some of your worries for your child's health and well-being. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism notes that explaining the health risks of substance abuse and setting clear standards on how you feel about substance abuse can let your child know how you feel about drinking and drug abuse. It lays the groundwork for expectations and consequences, if necessary.
Step 4
Add your hopes for your child to the end of the letter. Explain that the letter is to begin a better pattern of communication between you and that you want the best for him. End the letter with your love and appreciation, so your child receives the message and ends the letter on a high note.
Step 5
Give the letter to your child in a forward manner to let her know that it's important. Deliver the letter personally, and ask that she consider the terms and talk to you about substance abuse when she's ready for the discussion. Remember that the letter should be an ice-breaker to make substance abuse a more natural and open conversation between you and your child, notes KidsHealth website, a division of the Nemours Foundation.
