Drug and alcohol education
Communities, parents and the government share a responsibility to ensure that children and young people are aware of the possible consequences of drug and alcohol use and know where to go if they need help.
Information on drugs and alcohol is available to help parents guide and inform their children. This page provides links and contacts for some of those resources.
Talking to your children
Research shows that young people look to their parents for advice about drugs and alcohol and value their parent’s point of view.
When talking to your child you should be:
- clear about where you stand
- honest
- informed.
Make sure you have the facts when answering your child’s questions.
Research and read about:
Drug and alcohol fact sheets are available to help you guide and advise your child.
Warning signs of drug and alcohol use
Dramatic changes in appearance and behaviour don’t always mean that your child has a problem with alcohol or other drugs. It can be a normal part of growing up or an indication of something else that’s bothering them (e.g. pressure at school).
Read about the signs of drug use and how to raise this with your child.
Search the Australian Drug Information Network for information on topics like drink spiking and harm minimisation.
Help and support
If you suspect that your child needs help with a drug or alcohol related problem, contact:
- the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 177 833
- Al-Anon Family Groups
- Counselling Online
- Family Drug Support on 1300 368 186
- the Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.
If you need help with your own alcohol or drug use, contact:
- the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 177 833
- Alcoholics Anonymous
- the cannabis information helpline on 1800 304 050.
Treatment services are also provided in local communities by Queensland Hospital and Health Services, non-government and private organisations.
They include:
- comprehensive assessments
- counselling
- detoxification
- case management.
Search for a drug and alcohol treatment service near you. Select alcohol and drug in the search function along with your postcode, suburb or town.
Read more about addiction recovery
Information for your children
Many websites offer information aimed at young people. Encourage your child to read more about keeping themselves safe and making smart decisions about drugs and alcohol. You may also find this information useful.
- Staying safe at parties
- Drug and alcohol safety
- Alcohol and drugs at Schoolies
- Advice for young people
Government and community programs
There are a number of government and community initiatives aimed at drug and alcohol education and awareness, including:
