Talking to Your Parents Sometimes, it’s hard to talk to your parents about sensitive topics such as sex and drugs. While it may be difficult, the positives outweigh the negatives.

Sensitive Topics What is a sensitive / tough topic? Uncomfortable topic Challenges values and beliefs May get you into trouble Examples of sensitive topics: Drug & alcohol abuse / use Teen sex, pregnancy, homosexuality, or STDs Dating & relationships School violence / bullying Peer pressure

Sensitive Topics Cont. What makes a tough topic hard to talk about with parents? Embarrassment Afraid of parent’s response You and your parents may disagree Why is it important to talk to your parents about sensitive topics? Strengthens your relationship Demonstrates responsibility on your behalf Increased knowledge

How Do I Begin? Think about what you would like to know. There are several ways to begin the discussion to a sensitive topic. No matter how you begin the conversation, the purpose is to talk with your parents.

Talking Once, Is NOT Enough Talking about the sensitive topic only once is not enough. If you can’t talk with your parents, talk to another trustworthy adult. Get a third party involved to help talk over the topic with your parents.

Adolescent Sexuality Starting at puberty, teens start experiencing a rush of hormones, which inevitably triggers your sexual interest. Pregnancy Rates: 2000: U.S. = 48.5 out of year olds 2000: AL = 62.9 out of years old. STDs: Nationally, 3 million teens contract a STD every year How to Prevent: Talk with your Parents or other helpful adults!

Adolescent Drug Use & Abuse Approximately 50% of teenagers drink alcohol, and approximately 40% use marijuana. Alcohol: 3rd leading cause of death in the United States Teens can become alcoholics within 6 months of drinking, Drugs: Adolescent drug use is highest in the United States, Increases tolerance & physical & psychological dependence How to Prevent: Talk with your Parents or other helpful adults!

Adolescent Depression and Suicide As many as 1/3 of all teens are depressed. Signs of adolescent depression include: increased sleep, loss of energy, reduced interest in activities, and thoughts of suicide. Depression can lead to suicide. Suicide is the 3 rd leading cause of death for individuals yrs old. Talk with your Parents or other helpful adults!

It is now time to engage in the Activities

Wrap-up What was the importance of today’s session? Importance of talking with your parents What makes discussing sensitive topics so sensitive? How do you begin a conversation on a sensitive topic? What have you learned today and how can this be applied in your own home?