Substance Use Parent/Caregiver Info

Help for Parents and Youth to Prevent Substance Use and Build Healthy Choices.

Substance Use: Parent & Caregiver Information - Start the Conversation

Talking to your child about alcohol and drugs can feel hard—but it matters.

Creating a safe space helps your child feel comfortable talking with you.

A safe space means your child feels:

  • Safe
  • Respected
  • Free from judgment

A safe space can be a place, a person, or even how you talk and listen.

For Parents: How to Create a Safe Space

  • Choose a calm and comfortable place to talk
  • Let your child know they can come to you
  • Stay calm and manage your emotions
  • Pay attention to your body language
  • Give your child time to speak
  • Be patient—these talks take time

For Youth: Finding Your Safe Space

  • Talk to a trusted adult (parent, coach, teacher, mentor)
  • Find healthy ways to cope (music, sports, art, time outside)
  • Remember—you are not alone

Why Prevention Matters

Most people who struggle with substance use started before age 18.

Delaying alcohol or drug use helps protect the brain while it is still developing.

Substance use at a young age can:

  • Affect school and work
  • Harm relationships
  • Cause long-term health problems
  • Lead to addiction

Risk Factors (What Increases Risk)

  • Easy access to drugs or alcohol
  • Peer pressure
  • Stress at home or in the community
  • Mental health challenges
  • Family history of substance use

Warning Signs

  • Sudden changes in behavior or mood
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Problems at school or work
  • Risky behavior
  • Changes in sleep or eating
  • Hiding things or being secretive

If you notice major changes, it may be time to seek help.

Protective Factors (What Helps Prevent Use)

  • Clear rules about substance use
  • Strong family support
  • Positive activities and friendships
  • Open communication
  • Involvement in school and community

Parents and caregivers are the most important part of prevention.

Get Help

If you are concerned about your child or need support:

SUD Access Line (24/7)
Call: 1-800-654-3937
Confidential screening and referrals.

Local Resources

Urgent Care Wellness Center
4441 E. Kings Canyon Rd., Fresno, CA
Phone: 1 (559) 600-9171

Youth Wellness Center
4411 E. Cesar Chavez Blvd., Fresno, CA
Phone: (559) 512-8700

Provider Directory
Find local treatment providers and services at the county's Provider Directory webpage.

Community Programs

Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) / Friday Night Live
Programs that help youth build leadership skills and make healthy choices.

Learn More

 

If you have a Behavioral Health emergency
Please call 9-1-1

For Access to Services or the Crisis Line,
1 800 654-3937

 CalHOPE Warm Line
1 833 317-HOPE(4673)

Central Valley Suicide Prevention Lifeline
988

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