‘Parents Matter’ Webinar Series

Our 'Parents Matter' webinars aim to support parents on the topic of drugs and adolescence. Even though parents are just one of many factors that affect how teenagers use substances, they are the most significant factor. Our speakers take a holistic approach to help you navigate this area.

Register for the HSE Online Webinar: Vaping Products & Psychoactive Substances: What You Should Know as a Parent

The HSE will host a webinar for parents and guardians with a speicifc focus on the substance HHC on the 7th of October at 11:30am - 12:30pm.

HHC is a new drug chemically related to the cannabis plant. It was recently controlled after being widely available in high street shops and online. This webinar is designed to support parents who are concerned about young people’s use of vapes containing psychoactive substances and related drugs. It will also provide an overview of current cannabis-related substances, emerging trends, and other drugs of concern.

The Webinar aims to will highlight:

Emerging Drug Trends: Preparing parents for the rapidly evolving landscape of new and emerging substances
Parental Support: Understanding the role of parents and guardians in guiding healthy decision-making in children and teens
Youth Development: Why delaying or preventing early drug use is critical during key developmental stages.
Cannabis-Related Risks: Information on the hazards and harms associated with cannabis-related drugs, including HHC.
Prevention Strategies: Practical steps parents can take to reduce the likelihood of substance use problems.
Support Services: Where to find help and resources locally if you're concerned about a young person’s drug use.

WATCH BACK: Parents Matter Webinar (23rd November, 2023)

The latest webinar from November 2023 was in partnership with the HSE South East Addiction Services.

You can watch this event here.

WATCH BACK: Parents Matter Webinar (June, 2023)

Watch our Parents Webinar from earlier this year here

LISTEN: Parents Matter Podcast

Listen to Professor Bobby Smyth, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist talk about how parents can help prevent their kids from using drugs and alcohol. In the podcast, you'll learn about the latest trends in drugs and alcohol and how parents can guide and support their children to make healthy decisions. Professor Smyth will also explain why it's important to delay or prevent young people from starting to use drugs and alcohol, and give advice to parents on how to reduce the chances of their kids developing substance abuse problems.

Listen on Podbean and on the HSE Health and Wellbeing YouTube channel

Resources

See our resources for parents here.