The HSE has launched a guide for parents, which contains information and advice about how to talk to teenagers about alcohol and other drugs. The launch comes just ahead of Leaving Cert results day.

Over 60,000 pupils are set to receive their results on August 15, and alcohol and drugs may play a role in the celebrations of many.

The guide has been written by experts specifically for parents and it urges them ‘to get the conversation started with your son or daughter'.

"Students celebrating their exam results may feel under peer pressure to drink alcohol, so it is important for parents to get informed and be realistic about alcohol risks and to set the boundaries," the HSE said.

It pointed out that from the age of 12 until the mid 20s, brains develop a lot. Using alcohol or drugs at this time can damage the growing brain, causing long-term emotional problems and difficulties with learning, planning and memory.

While parents can feel powerless to stop their teenagers from using drugs or alcohol, research has shown that children who have conversations with their parents about alcohol/drug use are up to 50% less likely to use them compared to those who do not have such conversations.

"Alcohol and drugs are more harmful if you do not know what is going on. Getting your child's point of view is an important part of any conversation about alcohol or drugs. Listen carefully to find out what they know, what's happening with their friends and how they feel about alcohol and drugs," suggested Dr Gerry McCarney, a consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist.

The guide for parents offers advice on a range of topics, including:
-Getting the conversation about alcohol/drugs started with your teenager
-Setting a good example - a parent's drinking habits are one of the biggest influencers on their child's attitude to alcohol
-How to handle resistance and set boundaries

The guide also offers practical advice for specific situations, such as what to do if your teenager comes home drunk, what if their friends are allowed to drink alcohol, and how to recognise the signs of taking drugs.

"Upsets, disappointments, arguments and broken hearts are just a few of the challenges that young people face. Teenagers need to know their parents will look out for them no matter what.

"When young people rely on alcohol or drugs to get through social situations or cope with tough times, they miss the chance to identify and cope with painful emotions and to learn the skills of sharing their emotions and problems and asking for help. These skills can help them to manage better the next time and build their confidence and resilience," explained Brian Wall of the Institute of Guidance Counsellors.

The guide for parents can be downloaded here

Meanwhile, the Leaving Cert helpline will operate from 10am to 7pm on August 15 and 16, and from 10am to 1pm on August 17. It is provided by the National Parents' Council and is manned by counsellors from the Institute of Guidance Counsellors, who are qualified to give advice and support to both students and parents.

The number is 1800 265 165.