The HSE Launches ‘Alcohol and Drugs – A Parent’s Guide’ Today

Despite common perception, studies have revealed that adolescents who receive permission from their parents to drink alcohol experience more alcohol-related harm.

This is one of the findings in a new guide launched by the HSE today – ‘Alcohol and Drugs – A Parent’s Guide’.

The launch took place this morning at The Vintage Teapot on Dublin’s Cathedral Street, where parents and teens gathered to get the conversation started.

The Parent’s Guide has been written by experts and includes insights directly from young people. The Guide has advice on topics such as getting the conversation started, how to stay close to your child and help them to resist pressure from their friends and the media, how to set boundaries and much more practical advice and helpful tips.

The HSE’s Alcohol Programme launched “Alcohol and Drugs: A Parent’s Guide” this morning. We are encouraging families to get the conversation started with young people about the risks linked to alcohol over a cuppa and a chat. https://t.co/7H2r9FA7I2#parentsmatter #awarh18 pic.twitter.com/dCj3s8dp5n

— HSE Ireland (@HSELive) November 19, 2018

Attending the launch of Alcohol and Drugs: A Parent’s Guide. A great resource to improve communication between parents and children. See https://t.co/nUSiOPPdj4. pic.twitter.com/SUbVmpJ1uA

— NAPD (@NAPD_IE) November 19, 2018

Speaking at the launch, Catherine Byrne, TD., Minister of State at the Department of Health, said:

“All of these initiatives and policies are designed to help us protect our children from alcohol and alcohol-related harm. Parents play a critical role in this process, and I hope this guide will encourage them to have that conversation within their family about the risks of consuming alcohol and other drugs, and the damage they can do to our health and wellbeing”.

Brian Wall, from the Institute of Guidance Counsellors added:

“It is so important for young people to understand their emotions and how alcohol can be damaging for their developing brains. We’re making progress on this issue – young people are increasingly aware of the impact of alcohol, especially on their mental health.

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