Page 16 Know facts about the drug(s) you plan to discuss in advance. Understand and address your fears first. Don’t let irrational fears create undue anxiety while talking with your teen. Approach the conversation with a sense of curiosity and interest, rather than accusation and fear. Some experimentation is normal—discuss what that means and where to draw the line. Ask them for their opinions about what is happening. What do they think of the current crisis? How do they think they can address their own wellness and safety in the current context? Really listen, then discuss and address those issues together. Focus on your concerns for their safety and a deep regard for their wellness (versus right/wrong, good/bad, obey/punish). Open conversations create trust, reduce fear and make it possible for parents and youth to learn from one another. Discovery Youth and Family Substance Use Services (Island Health) provides free information, consultation and counselling for parents and caregivers who are looking for some help in supporting their youth around substance use concerns. Discovery also provides access to counselling and treatment options for youth who have developed problematic substance use and who are ready and willing to engage in our services. For more information contact Discovery in Nanaimo at 250 739 5790 Or access our website at: www.viha.ca/youth-substance-use/discovery.html  Some tips on how to start the conversation: