Let’s Talk Drugs Webinars
Conversations that Matter
Substance is proud to host webinars designed to connect parents, caregivers and trusted adults with experts on the substances and the associated issues that most commonly intersect with our children’s lives. Whether you’re trying to help a young person who is actively using substances problematically, or working to help your kids make responsible choices in the future, our webinars will provide insights and information you’ll find invaluable.
Let’s Talk Drugs is a monthly webinar series for parents, caregivers, and youth-serving professionals who want evidence-based, practical information about the impact of substances on young people. With three live sessions each month – 2 in English and one in French, it’s now easier to join the conversation.
Coming soon!
The back-to-school season brings a mix of emotions for kids and teens — excitement, anticipation, and for many, stress and anxiety. As classrooms fill up again, September is the perfect time to open conversations with your children about what they’re feeling.
Youth aged 15–24 are more likely to experience mental health challenges and substance use disorders than any other age group — and recent studies show that feelings of anxiety and depression among young people are on the rise. As stress levels increase, so does the likelihood of turning to substances as a way to cope.
By having age-appropriate conversations and offering the right support, you can make a real difference in your child’s well-being and set them up for a successful school year.
Here’s the monthly schedule. Click on the times to register.
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Spotlight on Opioids
In 2022, youth were more likely to report getting high from pharmaceuticals and medications than illegal drugs. Source: CSTADS 2022. When prescribed, opioids provide short-term pain relief — but when used recreationally, they can cause euphoria, drowsiness, vomiting, confusion, and even fatal respiratory arrest. Many young people believe prescription medications are safe to use without a prescription.
We explore the risks of opioids — including fentanyl — why kids may choose to use them, and how to have an open conversation with your child about opioids.
Opioids can be difficult to talk about with a young person, but having accurate information can help.
This information filled one-pager provides a clear overview of opioid use, the risks of fentanyl and other opioids, and practical steps parents can take to help keep their kids safer.
Looking for tips on how to talk with your teen? Visit our website for guidance on how to have age-appropriate conversations and support.
Click on the image to download the resource.
Spotlight on Cannabis
Cannabis is the second most commonly used substance in Canada, after alcohol. Get to know more about cannabis and explore the effects that early use of cannabis products can have on a young person’s life, then have a conversation with your child.
This one-page resource provides a snapshot of what parents should know about cannabis, including how it affects the developing brain, potential risks, and ways to support safer decision-making. Use it as a starting point for ongoing, honest conversations with your child — especially if they’ve already been asking questions.
The goal isn’t to have all the answers, it’s to stay informed, stay connected, and keep the conversation open.
Click on the image to download the resource.
Spotlight on Alcohol
Underage drinking is common in Canada, with many young people taking their first drink around age 13 and most trying alcohol at least once during their school years. This webinar for parents and caregivers discusses how alcohol affects youth, why teens choose to drink, and how to have calm and effective conversations with their kids about peer pressure, stress, and making safer choices.
Talking with your kids about alcohol can feel challenging, but staying informed can help you approach these conversations with greater confidence. This one page resource provides a snapshot of what parents should know about alcohol. Use it as a starting point for ongoing, honest conversations with your child.
The goal isn’t to have all the answers, it’s to stay informed, stay connected, and keep the conversation open.
Click on the image to download the resource.
Teen Celebrations: Help your teen make it a Night to Remember!
Big nights happen. Open conversations help teens make safe choices. Learn practical ways to start open conversations, set expectations, and help teens plan ahead for a safe and memorable celebration. Get strategies to help your teen make choices they’ll feel good about — and ensure their big night is remembered for the right reasons.
The Parent’s Guide to Safe Teen Celebrations brings together the key tips from our webinar in one easy-to-reference sheet, so you can have it on hand when prom night or graduation rolls around.
Click on the image to download the resource.
Navigating Tough Conversations with your Kids
Some important things to consider when talking about substance use with kids. We’ll share tangible, practical ways for parents and guardians to create open, non-judgmental conversations—and most of all, effective conversations—with their kids. Recorded on Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Tips for Parents
This practical tip sheet offers simple, evidence-informed guidance on learning the facts, listening without judgment, setting clear expectations, and creating space for open, ongoing family conversations.
Click on the image to download the resource.
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