If the youth in your life grow up copying your choices, would they be on a safe path? Intentionally or not, the choices adults make shape the lives of youth. This is especially true when it comes to addictive substances, such as nicotine, alcohol, opioids, etc. Recent research shows that nicotine-based electronic cigarettes are the most used tobacco product among youth in the United States, with 1.63 million reporting current daily use. Vaping did not exist a generation ago, but many of the habits that protect young people from substance abuse are clear. By making positive choices in their own lives, parents, teachers, and mentors can help youth maintain healthy, substance-free lifestyles.

ROOTS

Youth need supportive relationships and strong, positive influences from adults. However, many adults who want to help fight against youth substance abuse don’t know where to start. Adults can help young people by going back to the ROOTS:

R: Role Model

Every choice you make as an adult helps teach youth what is normal behavior. When adults act with purpose and prioritize health, they don’t just give advice but rather inspire a healthy lifestyle that youth may want to imitate. Your example can become their guide.

O: Open Conversations

Adults can speak honestly about addictive substances and their risks. Creating environments for open conversations can help youth understand the truth and make informed choices. Remember, your silence or warnings alone are not enough.

O: Opportunities

Adults can provide youth with alternate opportunities—like sports, arts, volunteering, or hobbies—that give youth healthy ways to cope with stress and peer influence and fell a sense of purpose.

T: Trust

Active listening without judgment or interruption can help youth and parents/guardians communicate. Through this, trust can be built to make it easier for youth to share their struggles and ask for guidance.

S: Support

Adults support youth by deliberately being present and available when needed. Consistent guidance, encouragement, and care give youth the confidence to resist addictive substances.

Summary

When adults provide ROOTS, youth grow with strength and confidence to make healthy decisions to live a substance-free life. For more information on talking with youth about addictive substances, visit aces.edu.